Chelsea ongoing FFP concerns grow with Mauricio Pochettino sack decision settlement in focus

Chelsea are once more facing down the barrel of another expensive managerial pay-off after Mauricio Pochettino took yet another step towards an early exit. The Blues boss is under as much pressure as ever in his first season at the club following yet another lacklustre performance on Saturday against Brentford.

The 52-year-old — who celebrated his birthday on the day of the 2-2 draw in west London — was once again unable to inspire a standout display.It left supporters in the away end chanting against him and the owners, as well as for Jose Mourinho.

However, having already parted with two permanent managers since taking over the club in May 2022, it isn't gearing up to be a simple decision for Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital. Not only do the club wish to assess their latest head coach come the end of the season after he signed an initial two-year deal, the process behind splitting with bosses is having a larger impact than ever before.

Chelsea have already spent over £100million on settlement payments with managers over the years of hiring and firing, and that money is now the centre of more attention. With an enormous focus on transfer spending under the current American-based administration, there have also been sizeable pay-offs for Thomas Tuchel and Graham Potter.

The latter, specifically, was the centre of incredible financial inefficiency after signing a six-year contract in September 2022, having already cost £20million in fees to leave Brighton alongside his coaching staff. They then had to reach a compensation agreement with the Englishman after sacking him just seven months into that deal, something that carried yet more significant financial implications.

With European football now set to escape the club for