Premier League: Mauricio Pellegrino appointed as Southampton manager

Premier League: Mauricio Pellegrino appointed as Southampton manager
Premier League side Southampton have appointed Mauricio Pellegrino as their new manager. Claude Puel, the previous boss, was sacked earlier in June after just one season in charge at St Mary's Stadium. Mauricio Pellegrino, a 43-year-old Argentinian coach, was in charge of Spanish top-flight side Alaves until the end of last season, when he resigned after losing the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona. Alaves finished ninth in LaLiga last season, a remarkable achievement for a newly-promoted side. "My philosophy and the culture of the club will work well," Pellegrino said after having signed a three-year contract with Southampton. "I want to win matches, be successful and develop a team spirit where everyone gives 100% and supports each other. I am excited and passionate about what the future holds." Pellegrino has some Premier League experience as a player after having appeared in 13 matches for Liverpool back in 2005 when manager Rafa Benitez brought him from Valencia. Southampton vice-chairman explained the club's choice: "He impressed us with his depth of knowledge, motivation and ability, he quickly became our first choice. While he had other options, we are delighted he feels that St Mary's is the right place for him." Pellegrino's first head coach job was at Valencia but he was fired after just seven months in charge. Then he managed Independiente and Estudiantes in Argentina before moving back to Spain at Alaves. Southampton finished ninth in the Premier League last season. Southampton are 9/2 at Bet365 to finish inside the Premier League top six next season.
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