Cole Palmer reacts to Mauricio Pochettino's shock Chelsea exit as Blues star pays tribute to Argentine for making his 'dreams come true'

Chelsea have announced that Pochettino has left the club by mutual consent after just one season in charge of the Blues. The Argentine has overseen a difficult campaign that ended on a winning streak which brought a sixth-placed finish and European football for next season. The decision to part company with Pochettino has angered some Chelsea fans, as Todd Boehly and Co begin the hunt for another new manager.

Palmer was the standout player for Chelsea in the 2023-24 campaign after moving to the club in the summer from Manchester City. The 22-year-old scored 22 goals and bagged 11 assists for the Blues to cap off a stellar debut season at Stamford Bridge. Palmer's performances have seen him claim the Premier League's Young Player of the Season award and a place in England's Euro 2024 squad. The youngster has now reacted to Pochettino's exit and is clearly disappointed to see the coach move on.

Palmer wrote on Instagram: "Gaffer, thank you for everything you have done for me & making my dreams come true. All the best.

At the age of 22 years and 13 days on the final day of the season, Palmer is the youngest player in the competition's history to finish as the outright leading player for combined goals and assists (33 - 22 goals, 11 assists).

Pochettino's exit from Chelsea comes at a time when a host of big names are available. Thomas Tuchel, Roberto De Zerbi, Massimiliano Allegri and even Jose Mourinho are all currently out of work. Meanwhile, Ipswich Town boss Kieran McKenna has been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge, and Thomas Frank, Sebastian Hoeness and even Gareth Southgate are also potential candidates.