Chelsea 'looking at new managers as possible replacements for Mauricio Pochettino'

Newcastle United's Eddie Howe and Barcelona's Xavi have reportedly been included on a shortlist of potential candidates to replace Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino.

The former Tottenham Hotspur manager has experienced a tumultuous campaign following his arrival at Stamford Bridge last summer.

Pochettino has gone close to winning silverware in his first season, leading the club to the EFL Cup final where they were ultimately beaten by Liverpool.

The Blues could still finish the campaign with a trophy, having progressed to the FA Cup semi-finals for the fourth time in five seasons.

While his team have fared well in the cup competitions, Pochettino's side have struggled to find consistency in the Premier League.

After collecting 44 points from 30 league matches, Chelsea are sitting in ninth position ahead of Monday's home game against Everton.

With his team experiencing mixed results, Pochettino has seen his position come under scrutiny from some quarters.

According to journalist Simon Phillips, Chelsea are drawing up a list of candidates who could replace Pochettino ahead of the 2024-25 season.

The Blues are yet to make a final decision over Pochettino's future, but they appear to be preparing for all eventualities.

Howe is reportedly among the names being considered despite having a long-term contract with Newcastle.

Howe, Xavi feature on Chelsea's shortlist

Howe, who has been Newcastle boss since 2019, is believed to have a number of admirers at Chelsea, having enjoyed success during his time in the North-East.

The 46-year-old enjoyed a successful 2022-23 campaign with the Magpies, leading them to the EFL Cup final while securing a top-four finish in the Premier League.

Although the current season has proven to be more difficult, Newcastle are currently sitting in sixth spot after winning three of their last four matches.

The Chelsea hierarchy are believed to be considering Barcelona head coach Xavi, who is set to leave the Catalan giants when his contract expires in the summer.

Xavi's side clinched the league title and the Spanish Super Cup last season, while they are currently in the hunt for Champions League glory after establishing a 3-2 lead in the first leg of their quarter-final tie with Paris Saint-Germain.

In addition to Howe and Xavi, Chelsea's managerial shortlist also includes Brentford's Thomas Frank, Brighton & Hove Albion's Roberto De Zerbi, Bayer Leverkusen's Xabi Alonso, Sporting Lisbon's Ruben Amorim and Feyenoord's Arne Slot.

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