Mauricio Pochettino has officially been appointed as Chelsea manager on a two-year deal, with the Blues priced at 11/8 to finish in the top four next season.
The former Tottenham coach, who has been out of work since leaving Paris St Germain last year, will take over from interim boss Frank Lampard who oversaw his final game in charge against Newcastle on Sunday.
It brings to an end an almost two-month process to find a permanent successor to Graham Potter, who was sacked on April 2.
It is understood that Pochettino had been the club’s first choice from early in the search, and he was the only candidate the club got into serious talks with.
The new manager, whose contract includes an option for a third season, will work closely with Winstanley and Stewart as the club look to rebuild after their worst season in 30 years.
Premier League Top 4 finish 23/24 (via Sky Bet)
- Man City - 1/20
- Arsenal - 5/6
- Liverpool - 5/6
- Man Utd - 11/10
- Newcastle - 6/5
- Chelsea - 11/8
- Tottenham - 9/4
- Brighton - 11/4
- Aston Villa - 8/1
Odds correct at 1330 (29/05/23)
Chelsea have been installed as sixth favourites in a competitive looking top four race next season, with Man City, Arsenal, Liverpool, Man Utd and Newcastle all ahead of them in the betting.
If you think Poch can work an instant miracle, the Blues are 16/1 to win the title, while a repeat of their torrid 22/23 campaign - which saw them finish in the bottom half - can be backed at 6/1.