Former Chelsea boss spotted in the stands with ex-Blues assistant amid links to managerial vacancy

Graham Potter has been out of management since his departure from Chelsea in April 2023.

After less than seven months of Chelsea, Potter ran out of time to win both the supporters and hierarchy over following a 2-0 home defeat to Aston Villa.

However, the 48-year-old did leave Stamford Bridge with the utmost respect, expressed in a gracious club statement confirming his departure.

On April 2nd 2023, it read: “Chelsea FC has announced that Graham Potter has departed the club. Graham has agreed to collaborate with the Club to facilitate a smooth transition. In his time with the club, Graham has taken us to the quarter final of the Champions League, where we will face Real Madrid. Chelsea would like to thank Graham for all his efforts and contribution and wish him well for the future.

“Bruno Saltor will take charge of the team as Interim Head Coach.

“Co-controlling owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali said: ‘On behalf of everyone at the club, we want to thank Graham sincerely for his contribution to Chelsea. We have the highest degree of respect for Graham as a coach and as a person. He has always conducted himself with professionalism and integrity and we are all disappointed in this outcome’.

“‘Along with our incredible fans, we will all be getting behind Bruno and the team as we focus on the rest of the season. We have 10 Premier League games remaining and a Champions League quarter final ahead. We will put every effort and commitment into every one of those games so that we can end the season on a high’.”

Since his Chelsea exit, Potter has been linked to many managerial vacancies. He has bided his time before choosing his next job, though one job has lead the way – Crystal Palace.

Roy Hodgson’s future at Selhurst Park is uncertain. Potter was the front-runner to succeed the 76-year-old last summer, however the Eagles opted to stay with the veteran.

After being axed by Nottingham Forest, Steve Cooper is likely to succeed Hodgson if and when he leaves the south London club.

With the winter break period underway – clubs playing on alternate weekends – Potter was spotted in the stands at the Emirates Stadium for Arenal versus Crystal Palace.

He was in attendance with Gareth Southgate’s England and former Chelsea assistant Steve Holland, as pictured on TNT Sports.

Could this be Crystal Palace or England related? Only time will tell.