PSG Reach Agreement to Part Ways with Mauricio Pochettino

Paris Saint-Germain have reached an agreement with head coach Mauricio Pochettino that will see the Argentine leave his role ahead of the upcoming season after 18 months in charge, The Athletic has learned.

Pochettino is believed to have met the PSG hierarchy last week to discuss the 2021-22 campaign, during which his team won Ligue 1 but lost to eventual winners Real Madrid in the Champions League round of 16.

It is understood the conversation produced a mutual decision that the former PSG captain will not continue in the Parc des Princes dugout, with both sides identifying a parting of ways to be the most sensible step.

Given Pochettino’s contract was scheduled to expire in 2023, his exit still needs to be finalised. But the club are already looking for their new leader; Christophe Galtier of Nice is thought to be among various options.

Pochettino’s exit will follow that of sporting director Leonardo last week. He was replaced by Luis Campos, who will work as PSG’s football advisor.

Pochettino had chances to depart the French capital last summer — Real placed him high on the list of candidates to succeed Zinedine Zidane and Tottenham Hotspur showed firm interest in naming their ex-manager as Jose Mourinho’s replacement — however, a move for the 50-year-old did not materialise.