Mauricio Pochettino issues his first statement since leaving Chelsea with a heartfelt message to the fans

Mauricio Pochettino has issued his first statement since leaving his role as Chelsea manager last month.

the Argentinian resign by mutual agreement from his position at Stamford Bridge after just one season at the club.

Two weeks after his departure, Pochettino broke his silence by writing a heartfelt tribute to the club and its fans.

In an Instagram post shared on Tuesday, Pochettino wrote: “To the owners, to the sporting directors, we thank you for the opportunity to return to the Premier League at this great club @Chelsea and for the support you have given us, as well as everyone else. Players. , staff and fans: thank you.

“We understand how important this football club is to all of you and that is why we work so hard to provide you with a Chelsea you can be proud.

“I am very pleased with the level the team has reached and the way the players and staff have worked so hard to improve their standards. They deserve great credit and I hope you feel it too for their performance on the field.

“We know that there have been ups and downs but we always believed in this team and that we would reach a constant level.

“I think the experiences of this season and the big improvements we saw, I hope it only strengthens the players for the future. It has been a pleasure to work with them all and we appreciate the strong bonds we have created together over this past year.

“I want to wish everyone the best for next season and beyond.

“It's fantastic that we have the opportunity to return to Stamford Bridge so soon with @socceraid this weekend and I hope we can see some of you there too.

“I hope everyone has a great summer.

“A big hug from us, MP x.”

More will follow…