3 things Chelsea can expect from Pochettino as ex-PSG boss closes in on head coach role

The search for the new Chelsea head coach is reportedly set to come to an end, with Mauricio Pochettino expected to be appointed imminently.

Multiple outlets are reporting that Pochettino impressed the Blues hierarchy after long talks. He was an outside contender, with the perceived frontrunners, Julian Nagelsmann and Luis Enrique ultimately dropping out of the race.

Pochettino's lack of trophies during his first spell in England with Tottenham Hotspur has always been a consideration when judging his suitability to manage a top club.

However, Sports Brief believes he might be the answer to a struggling Chelsea side in dire need of an uplift.

Then again, after Nagelsmann and Enrique withdrew and with Zinedine Zidane reportedly focused on Juventus, Pochettino was probably the only option Chelsea had.

1. 4-2-3-1 formation

In Poch, Chelsea will get a manager who is willing to put everything on the line while attacking. Scoring goals has been the club's main issue this season and looking at Pochettino's previous teams, it was an area he addressed pretty well.

The 4-2-3-1 formation allows for the main striker and the three players behind him to prod forward. The double pivot in midfield provides cover for the defence in that the full-backs can also attack. Chelsea are blessed with two of the best in the position in Reece James and Ben Chilwell.

It will be interesting to see which striker he will use or if he will push the club to sign a new one. The number 10 role could be filled by Mason Mount or Kai Havertz. He is also keen on quick transitions and constant pressing when out of possession.

2. Development of young players

Remember prime Delle Alli? That was Pochettino in full swing. His arrival in West London will be welcome news to the many young players the new Chelsea ownership has signed.

There have been reports that the Argentine is confident of turning Mykhailo Mudryk into a potent goal-scorer.

3. Stability and experience

Pochettino's misgivings at Tottenham and PSG notwithstanding, no one can question his experience in managing top clubs and big egos. This is a manager who has dealt with Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Neymar, and Harry Kane.

He can be relied upon to inject the required stability in Stamford Bridge, provide direction, and reign in player power. It was an aspect that many believed was lacking during the short-lived Graham Potter era.

The bottom line is - Pochettino shouldn't be judged by his inability to win trophies but with the current squad Chelsea has, he will be unexcused if he doesn't turn them into title contenders. The Blues' owners need to save face; he could be the answer to their issues.

What Chelsea needs to revive

A brace from Rodrygo on April 18 condemned Chelsea to exit the UEFA Champions League, as the struggling club failed to contain Real Madrid's march to an eleventh semi-final in 13 years.

The English club are now set to sit out of European football until at least 2025 but as Sports Brief has analysed, this might be just what the club needs to find its feet amid a period of turmoil.

With the season effectively done and dusted - and with the Blues trophy-less in all competitions - the ownership must take certain steps to ensure Chelsea revcovers from an all-time low.