Girona's Spanish coach Michel looks on before the start of the Spanish league football match between RC Celta de Vigo and Girona FC at the Balaidos stadium in Vigo on January 28, 2024. (Photo by MIGUEL RIOPA / AFP) (Photo by MIGUEL RIOPA/AFP via Getty Images)
The air at Chelsea and Stamford Bridge smell of change, change of ownership to change of transfer policy and change of manager after manager and another maybe another…
Mauricio Pochettino shoulders a heavy burden of pressure amidst a challenging season for Chelsea, despite the significant investment made by Todd Boehly following his takeover of the West London club.
As speculation swirls regarding Pochettino’s future, Chelsea’s hierarchy is already drawing up a shortlist of potential managerial candidates in the event of the Argentine’s departure at the end of the current season. In a bid to court Girona boss Michel, Chelsea officials traveled to Spain for discussions with the 48-year-old. However, their advances were reportedly rebuffed by Michel, adding another layer of uncertainty to Chelsea’s managerial saga.
Michel’s tenure as manager of Girona has been nothing short of remarkable since his appointment in 2021. The Spaniard wasted no time in making an impact, guiding the club to promotion from the second tier in his debut season. In their first campaign back in the top flight, Michel steered Girona to a commendable mid-table finish, laying a solid foundation for future success.
However, it’s in the current season where Michel’s coaching prowess has truly shone. Girona has exceeded all expectations under his guidance, mounting a surprise title challenge in La Liga. As it stands, they find themselves in second place, ahead of traditional powerhouses like Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, with only ten games remaining in the season. This remarkable position puts Girona in prime contention for a historic Champions League qualification spot, marking a significant milestone in the club’s journey under the 48-year-old’s leadership.
While Girona impress, Chelsea were noting their successes, as the report by AS claims that Chelsea chiefs flew to talk with Michel while expressing their desire to bring him to West London next season.
The Blues put an ‘offer on the table’ for Michel as they are sounding out options if they were to replace Pochettino in the summer. Although the recent comments from the 48-year-old suggests he has rejected such approaches.
“I am a better coach thanks to [Girona],” he said. “The club has made my work very happy, in other teams I have had more problems. I have a contract and I am very comfortable. I think I will continue here. I am convinced.”
Reports in Spanish media also suggest that City football ground are eyeing Michel to become the long term successor to Girona’s sister club Manchester City with Pep Guardiola’s contract at Etihad Stadium running out at the end of next season.
Chelsea must prioritize stability and consistency across all aspects of the club, from the boardroom to the playing field. Clear communication, strong leadership, and a unified vision for the future will be essential in guiding the club towards its desired objectives. By taking proactive steps to address current issues and plan for the future, Chelsea can position themselves for a more successful and prosperous season ahead.
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