Mauricio Pochettino has boldly claimed that he does not think Tottenham Hotspur fans will like him less for joining London rivals, Chelsea.
Pochettino had a five-and-a-half-year association with the Lilywhites, going head-to-head with the Blues in many fierce encounters, including the infamous Battle of the Bridge.
LONDON, ENGLAND – JULY 07: Chelsea Head Coach Mauricio Pochettino poses for the photographer after holding a Press Conference at Stamford Bridge on July 07, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)
Chelsea and Spurs even battled for the Premier League title in the 2016/17 season, with the Blues finishing on 93 points and Spurs just seven behind.
Many would have imagined that the stars had aligned for a fairytale reunion between Tottenham and Pochettino this summer, after Antonio Conte was sacked during a time in which Poch was out of work.
However, the Lilywhites decided to opt for Ange Postecoglou from Celtic instead, and Pochettino signed on the dotted line with Chelsea to make his Premier League return.
Pochettino does not think Spurs fans will hate him
Some of the reaction from Spurs fans on social media has been less than favourable towards their formerly-beloved boss, but Pochettino does not think Tottenham supporters will like him less.
Pochettino said (Guardian): “I don’t believe that the fans will change.
“But what can they do? Nothing. For me, it is about being focused on trying to do my job here.
“What can I say or do if that happens [Spurs fans hating him]?
“It’s up to them to keep or not the feelings they were feeling in the past.”
Spurs Web Opinion:
Hate is a strong word, but a lot of fans do seem to be feeling that right now. Others feel disappointed, betrayed, or let down by their former manager.
I’m sure that Pochettino is correct, many fans will still love him. But he might be in for a shock come his first visit to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
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