Pochettino waving in 2025 in a USA match

Mauricio Pochettino responds to Real Madrid rumours after Tottenham chants

Adem Ozcan Last updated: Mar 10, 2026, 7:04 pm
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Image: Getty Images

Mauricio Pochettino found himself at the centre of an unusual moment this week after Tottenham supporters on his flight to Madrid began singing his name and urging him to return to north London.

The former Spurs manager was travelling to the Spanish capital when fans recognised him and started chanting in his direction. Shortly after landing, the Argentine coach was approached by Spanish television programme El Chiringuito at the airport, where he was asked about growing rumours linking him with the Real Madrid job.

Pochettino responded calmly, acknowledging the speculation without dismissing it outright.

Mauricio Pochettino reacts to Real Madrid rumours

During the brief airport interview, the coach was asked directly about the reports connecting him with the Real Madrid position.

Rather than shutting down the rumours, Pochettino suggested that speculation is inevitable for managers working at the highest level of the game.

“When rumours are pleasant, yes. At this level these things always happen, so I just continue my life as normal.” — Mauricio Pochettino, via El Chiringuito

The Argentine also noted that speculation surrounding football managers can often be negative, meaning that positive links are easier to accept.

“There are many rumours that are negative. When something is positive, of course it is different. But you always take it calmly with the experience we have in this world.” — Mauricio Pochettino

Tottenham supporters serenade former manager

The interview followed a light hearted moment earlier during the flight when Tottenham fans began chanting for Pochettino.

Supporters reportedly recognised him on board and sang songs asking the Argentine to return to the club he managed between 2014 and 2019.

The moment highlighted the lasting connection between Pochettino and the Tottenham fanbase, years after his departure from the club.

During his five seasons in north London, the coach guided Spurs to consistent top four finishes and led the team to the 2019 Champions League final.

Long standing connection with Real Madrid

Pochettino was also asked about his relationship with Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez.

The two have shared a friendly public relationship in the past. Before Tottenham’s Champions League final in Madrid in 2019, Pochettino jokingly referenced Pérez when discussing his team’s preparation plans.

The Argentine had explained that Tottenham wanted to stay overnight at Real Madrid’s training complex but joked that Pérez declined the request.

“If you want to coach Real Madrid, you can sleep there.”

Speaking again this week, Pochettino emphasised that he maintains good relationships with many clubs across the football world.

“I always keep a very good relationship with almost all clubs. Not only with Madrid, but with many others.”

Key Insights

  • Mauricio Pochettino was serenaded by Tottenham fans on a flight to Madrid.
  • The Argentine then gave an airport interview addressing Real Madrid rumours.
  • Pochettino acknowledged speculation is common at the highest level.
  • The coach previously led Tottenham to the 2019 Champions League final.
  • He maintains a positive relationship with Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez.

What’s Next

Pochettino’s future continues to attract attention whenever major managerial positions become uncertain. While the Argentine did not confirm any discussions regarding the Real Madrid role, speculation around his next career move is likely to continue.

For Tottenham supporters, the airport moment served as a reminder of the strong bond that still exists between the manager and the club.

Would Tottenham fans welcome Mauricio Pochettino back if the opportunity ever arose?

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