He may be the name on the lips of many top clubs from around Europe, but Mauricio Pochettino believes he is lucky to be at Tottenham Hotspur.
The Argentine coach has led Tottenham’s title charge in each of the past two seasons, and although they have missed out on both occasions, there is no doubt he now has one of the most talented squads at his disposal. The impression he has made has seen him linked with the likes of Barcelona and Inter Milan in recent weeks, as the current campaign winds to a close.
But speaking after Spurs defeated Manchester United 2-1 in the last ever game at White Hart Lane before it is redeveloped, Pochettino left no doubts that he sees his future at the north London club. As a number of legends taking to the field to bid the old ground farewell, it appeared to hammer home just how lucky the former Southampton boss feels he is to have such a job.
“It was a very emotional game and ceremony. It’s difficult to describe,” he said. “I’m a very lucky guy to share the history of such a club in such a special moment. I want to say thanks to all my players and staff. We are sad and disappointed that Chelsea won the league but there is nothing to regret. All we can say is that next season we will give our best and try to win the league.”
As Tottenham’s new ground continues to be built, they will play their home games at Wembley Stadium next season. This hasn’t been a happy hunting ground for the team of late, notably in their miserable UEFA Champions League campaign this term, but Pochettino is already looking forward to moving into their new ground in 2018/19 which he believes will elevate them to the level of Europe’s finest.
“We’ve been thinking about it a lot and when the new stadium opens it will help us a lot to reach the next level,” he added. “It will put the club in the last level in Europe.”
The win over Jose Mourinho’s side not only secured second place in the Premier League – their highest position since 1963 – it also ensured they ended their last season at White Hart Lane unbeaten in front of their own fans. And although they ended the campaign without any silverware to show for their considerable efforts, the future is shining bright for the club.
