Micah Richards has predicted Mauricio Pochettino to guide Chelsea back into the Premier League top-four next season, but Roy Keane and Jamie Carragher aren't so sure. The 51-year-old has finally been unveiled as the Blues' next manager, penning a two-year contract with the option for a third.
football.london understands that Pochettino agreed a deal to replace Frank Lampard earlier this month following weeks of positive talks. The former Tottenham boss will officially start his role as head coach on July 1, meaning he has a full pre-season to get his feet under the table and begin planning for next term.
While the Argentinean is expected to welcome Christopher Nkunku to Stamford Bridge this summer, doubt has been cast over his ability to secure a Champions League qualification place. Speaking on Sky Sports over the weekend, Richards said: "I think Chelsea are going to be really good next season under Poch."
READ MORE: Joao Felix sends cryptic Chelsea transfer hint as Stamford Bridge frustration made clear
The former Manchester City and Aston Villa defender's comment quickly ignited a heated conversation in the studio. Cutting in, Carragher replied: "They’re going to have to be better, won’t they?"
Richards continued: "I think top four. Chelsea top four, challenging a little bit maybe more. The players that they’ve got, they need a striker - Nkunku’s coming in, they’ll get that sorted - but I think Chelsea will be challenging big next season."
Carragher replied: "Who are the players? You say the Chelsea players, who are these guys? I remember they spent a lot of money but who are the players?"
Richards added: "Reece James will be back fit, Fofana will come back into his own."
Carragher: "They’re only two players who’ve been good this season, haven’t they?"
Richards: "Reece James was injured for the majority of the season."
Carragher: "He’s always injured!"
Richards: "That’s a bit harsh, isn’t it?"
Carragher: "No, but I mean Fernandez has got great pedigree–"
Interrupting the former Liverpool defender, Richards said: "Nkunku’s coming in, he will make a difference."
Carragher had the final say by outlining the two positions which Chelsea need to improve. He said: "They’ve no goalkeeper or striker - he might come in and make a difference. Mudryk’s come for a lot of money, he’s got great pedigree."
As reported by football.london reported in October, Chelsea appear to have won the race to sign the Bundesliga top-scorer.
It's believed that the RB Leipzig star has signed a pre-contract agreement with Chelsea and arrive in time for the 2023/24 season. However, the deal is not entirely completed yet and there are some final details which need to be put in place before the transfer is official.
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