Mauricio Pochettino WILL return to Stamford Bridge to take charge of Soccer Aid World XI despite Chelsea exit

The Argentine manager will be at the helm of the Soccer Aid World XI team for a second consecutive year with the event scheduled for June 9 in West London. Pochettino's team will lock horns against an England side managed by former Chelsea boss and club legend, Frank Lampard.

Assisting Pochettino will be his long-term staff members Jesus Perez and Tony Jimenez. The roster for this year's event includes notable names such as Jill Scott, Karen Carney, Jermain Defoe, David James, Gary Cahill, David Seaman, Roberto Carlos, Joe Cole, and Jack Wilshere.

Pochettino expressed his enthusiasm for participating in Soccer Aid once again, highlighting the positive experience from the previous year.

"Soccer Aid for UNICEF is a huge event — and one I am delighted to be part of again," he had said earlier.

"The 2023 match was a great experience to be a part of and that is why I was more than happy to accept a return this year, particularly as it will be at Stamford Bridge and with Frank Lampard, a Chelsea legend, in the opposing dugout for England.

"We raised so much money last year, and I hope we can do the same this time, so please get involved and buy your tickets. A sold-out Stamford Bridge generates an incredible atmosphere and we want the players who are part of Soccer Aid 2024 to enjoy that same feeling when they step out onto the pitch on Sunday, June 9.”

Soccer Aid, established in 2006, has grown into a significant event on the football calendar. It merges the worlds of football and entertainment, drawing attention to UNICEF's vital work in supporting children worldwide. The 2024 edition promises to be another memorable occasion, with fans eagerly anticipating the match-up between Pochettino's World XI and Lampard's England team.

Pochettino's involvement in Soccer Aid has been instrumental in raising substantial funds for UNICEF. The event, which brings together former footballers and celebrities, has so far generated nearly £100 million for the charity.

As the countdown to Soccer Aid 2024 begins, fans can look forward to an exciting and meaningful event, with Pochettino once again at the helm, championing a cause that transcends the game itself. The event will mark Pochettino's return to Stamford Bridge just weeks after his departure from Chelsea. Under his leadership, Chelsea secured a sixth-place finish in the Premier League, ensuring a return to European competition.