OFFICIAL: Southampton Appoint Mauricio Pellegrino As New Manager
Reuters / Susana Vera
Southampton have announced Mauricio Pellegrino as their new manager ahead of the upcoming 2017-18 season.
The former Liverpool coach has been appointed on a 3-year deal at St. Mary’s, and he will officially join up with the club next week, in time for the start of pre-season training, as per the official statement.
The 45-year-old replaces Claude Puel, who was sacked last week, despite guiding the club to an eighth place finish in the Premier League table, as well as the League Cup final in his first season.
Pellegrino guided Spanish club Alaves to a ninth place finish, and also reached the final of the Copa del Rey, where his team lost to Barcelona 1-3.
Following his appointment, the Argentine coach stated: “I am really happy to become the new coach of Southampton Football Club. The club has a great reputation for having a strong and stable structure, competing in the Premier League and playing attractive football.
“I think my philosophy and the culture of the club will work well together. We have to be a team on and off the pitch. I want to make the supporters proud of the players and to feel part of the game every week. I want to win matches, be successful and develop a team spirit where everyone gives 100 per cent and supports each other.”
Pellegrino gained respect working alongside Rafael Benitez as an assistant at Liverpool, and he therefore has a significant experience in the Premier League.
He becomes Southampton’s second Argentine manager, with Mauricio Pochettino previously at the helm.
He will manage his first competitive game on August 12, when Southampton face Swansea City at home on the opening day of the Premier League 2017-18 campaign.
Written by Rajdeep Saha 
Sports journalist with stints across print, digital and television. Contribution to each medium has been thrilling. Experienced in writing for this passionate game called football. Journalist by choice and passion.