Chelsea WhatsApp groups have 'gone into meltdown' after Mauricio Pochettino's sudden departure, reports claim.
The 52-year-old was expected to stay at Stamford Bridge after guiding the club to sixth in the Premier League table, having improved over the final few months of the season.
But Pochettino left Chelsea by mutual consent on Tuesday, with the Blues now considering the likes of Kieran McKenna and Roberto De Zerbi to replace him.
According to The Telegraph, Chelsea WhatsApp groups have 'gone into meltdown' following the news the Argentine would be leaving.
Chelsea confirmed the departure of Mauricio Pochettino on Tuesday
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They had assumed Pochettino would be in the dugout next season due to their impressive form at the end of the campaign.
Pochettino was popular among his squad, with his staff - particularly assistant Jesus Perez - apparently 'well liked and respected'.
But an insider now says Chelsea players are 'pretty upset' with the news.
“The players could not believe it," a source is quoted as saying.
"They had no idea until the news broke and it started going around their WhatsApp groups.
"Most of them really liked Poch, so they were pretty upset.”
A couple of Chelsea players have made it clear they're unhappy with the decision.
Nicolas Jackson first uploaded a picture of himself with Pochettino, who signed him from Villarreal last summer.
He accompanied that message with two 'facepalm' emojis before proceeding to write: “Love you, coach.
"Wish we could stay together more. But may God continue to bless you and your family.
“Thanks for the advice and support. You are a true lion and fighter. Wish you all the best.”
John Terry, who works with Chelsea's academy players, said he was 'gutted'.
And Moises Caicedo, who was also brought in by Pochettino, said: “Mister! It was a pleasure.
“I wish you all the best for the future. What a person and what a coach.”
It is currently unclear who Chelsea will go for to replace Pochettino.
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Chelsea could be tempted to appoint Roberto De Zerbi after it was confirmed the Italian would be leaving Brighton
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Roberto De Zerbi is one option, with Brighton recently confirming the Italian would be leaving the club.
Whether Chelsea would go for another former Brighton boss after Graham Potter's turbulent stint in charge is unclear.
Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna is believed to be admired behind the scenes at Stamford Bridge after his impressive work at Portman Road.
Given he's just 38, however, his appointment would represent a gamble.
Girona's Michel is another candidate being linked, having guided the LaLiga side to third in the table with one left match left to play.
Mauricio Pochettino was popular with his Chelsea players prior to his departure from the club
REUTERS
But a return for Jose Mourinho won't be happening.
Some Chelsea fans would love to see the 'Special One' return for a third stint with the Blues.
Mourinho isn't believed to be under consideration, however, with a move to Saudi Arabia far more realistic.