Julian Nagelsmann, a 35-year-old former manager of Bayern Munich, is no longer in the running to become the next manager of Chelsea football club, according to reports. Nagelsmann was considered the front-runner for the job, but he has reportedly withdrawn from the race after multiple rounds of talks. The news comes as a blow to Chelsea's owners and Nagelsmann's many admirers, as he was highly sought after for the role.
Nagelsmann was recently sacked by Bayern Munich and replaced by former Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel. He was in London last Thursday for face-to-face talks with Chelsea, which were said to be "very positive" according to Sky Germany. At the time, Luis Enrique was also considered a contender for the role, but he was later revealed to be out of the running.
With Nagelsmann now out of the frame, former Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino is expected to emerge as the favorite for the job. Pochettino has reportedly had positive talks with the Chelsea board, and his inclusion at the very top of the club's shortlist is seen as a huge boost for his chances.
Vincent Kompany was also reportedly considered for the job, along with one other unknown manager. However, it now appears that Pochettino is the front-runner to take over from Graham Potter as Chelsea's new manager ahead of the 2023/24 season.