It has taken a bit longer than we thought, but finally Claude Puel has left Southampton after a mixed season.
On paper, the 2016/17 campaign looks good, after finishing eighth in the league and reaching a cup final. This would normally be confirmed as a good season for Southampton but after the fans and reportedly players expressing their displeasure with the manager, there was no way back for him.
The reaction from neutrals has been as expected. “What more do you want?!”
From the outside, this is understandable. But you know most of the people saying this haven’t watched Southampton this season.
The stats show we struggled at home with goals, finishing the season with a tally of just 17; close to being level with Sunderland who went down this season. Once you start to lose the fans and players’ support, then you are done for.
The process to replace Puel began with Thomas Tuchel, but the somewhat dream candidate has ruled himself out.
Other names include Frank de Boer and Mauricio Pellegrino, who has recently held talks with Crystal Palace. Les Reed has a big choice to make ahead of pre-season as signings are yet to be made and the future of Virgil van Dijk is yet to be fully resolved after a transfer to Liverpool broke down.
The next few days will shed light on the new man who will look to take this club further, with European football still a target for Southampton.
Many couldn’t see Saints reaching the Europa League under Puel, and whoever is appointed will face the task of trying to get us back in the mix again. This can only make the choice even more vital for the board.
Another summer roller coaster awaits…
We March On.
