Mauricio Pochettino has said he will “100%” be at the club next season, although he was quick to add that things could still change.
Speculation had increased after the FA Cup semi-final defeat to Manchester United following Poch’s repeated use of the same phrase in interviews after the game. The Argentine was quoted at the time as saying:
“Tottenham need more time with me or with another”
In today’s press conference, the manager was more straightforward with his answer:
“As of today, it is 100% [that I will be manager next season] because I have a three-year contract here. But tomorrow I don’t know what is going to happen.”
The news that he will likely be staying as we move into our new stadium was greeted with enthusiasm on Twitter:
Great news, one of the best managers the club has ever had.
— Jed Lomax (@JedLomax) May 11, 2018
https://twitter.com/AmosHermens/status/994921436228833281
https://twitter.com/mickytricks/status/994917682909728769
My Friday just got so much better
— Hakunayatatas (@faulkas) May 11, 2018
https://twitter.com/JonathanRixera/status/994928671382175745
Great news Just need Levy to back him and you would like to think he has had assurances from Club that they will #coys
— Andy TTID (@Bytor14) May 11, 2018
Most important person at the club COYS!
— John (@Jonatronic01) May 11, 2018
Must have secured the transfer dough then….
— David Lynch (@davidlynch333) May 11, 2018
Standard.
— Jimmy (@LowerRungJim84) May 11, 2018
Verdict:
His fighting talk before and after sealing qualification for the Champions League on Wednesday night suggested he has never really considered leaving.
The lack of a trophy may be a cause of frustration, but his words about the team being a long-term project always suggested a man who remains comfortable in his position at the club.
There will no doubt be additional challenges next season at the new ground, but it looks as though Poch is prepared to take this club forward for the foreseeable future.