Mauricio Pochettino's latest manager job has been confirmed, but it's not the one everyone was expecting.
The former Tottenham manager is understood to be putting the finishing touches on a three-year deal to become Chelsea's next head coach, with an official announcement expected imminently.
It will be Pochettino's first return to management since his sacking by Paris Saint-Germain at the end of last season... or so we thought.
In a surprise announcement, Pochettino has agreed to manage the World XI side against England at Soccer Aid.
Stamford Bridge will have to wait, as Old Trafford is due to host the charity match for Unicef on June 11.
The Pochettino announcement you've all been waiting for.
— Soccer Aid (@socceraid) May 19, 2023
We're delighted to announce Mauricio Pochettino as the new Soccer Aid World XI FC manager. ✍️ #WelcomePoch || #SoccerAid || 🎟️ » https://t.co/ZK7JFqIkOJ pic.twitter.com/iq47WbdEsv
“I am really looking forward to getting involved in Soccer Aid this year and managing the World XI,” Pochettino said.
“It is a real pleasure to be part of a match that represents a big cultural moment in this country’s annual calendar – and rightly so, because it raises so much money for Unicef.
“I love English football stadiums, the passion the fans show for the game and the atmosphere they create, so it will be great to feel that again next month.”
Pochettino's fellow Argentines Gabriel Batistuta and Hernan Crespo will be part of the squad, while Usain Bolt is captain.
