Mauricio Pochettino sends emotional message to Todd Boehly and Chelsea ownership regime after seeing Enzo Maresca drafted in to replace him at Stamford Bridge

After a rather tumultuous year at the helm of Chelsea, Pochettino was shown the door by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, despite the strong end to the season. Enzo Maresca was named as the Argentine manager's successor earlier this week and Pochettino has now sent a message to the Blues' ownership as he prepares to return to Stamford Bridge in charge of the Soccer Aid World XI against Frank Lampard's England All-Stars.

The Argentine posted photos on Instagram of his time at the club and wrote an emotional message to the Chelsea board.

"To the owners, the sporting directors we appreciate the opportunity to return to the Premier League at this great club @Chelsea and for the support you gave us, as well as from all the players, staff and fans - thank you.

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

"I am so pleased with the level the team reached and the way the players and staff have all worked so hard to increase their standards, they deserve great credit and I hope you felt that too in how they performed on the pitch.

"We know there have been ups and downs but we always believed in this team and that we would arrive at a consistent level.

"I believe the experiences of this season and big improvement we saw, I hope will only make the players stronger for the future. It has been a pleasure to work with them all and we appreciate the strong bonds we created in this last year together.

"I want to wish all of you the best for next season and beyond.

"It is great that we have the chance to return to Stamford Bridge so soon with @socceraid this weekend and I hope that we get to see some of you there too.

"I hope you all get to have a great summer.

"Big hug from us, MP x"

Pochettino's return to the Premier League lasted less than a year, however, it is obvious from his message that the Argentine does not have bad blood with Boehly and the board despite his sacking. Pochettino managed to lead the Blues out of their downward spiral and managed to bring them to the Europa League spots at the end of the season, however, that wasn't enough for the ownership, who decided to part ways.

The Argentine will return to the Stamford Bridge touchline on June 9 alongside his long-term staff members Jesus Perez and Tony Jimenez. His side will be captained by Usain Bolt and will also have Blues legends like Petr Cech, Eden Hazard and Michael Essien.