It is the summer of 1997, and Gus Poyet has just completed a free transfer to Chelsea after a seven-year stint with Spanish side Real Zaragoza. It would be the start of a long-winded spell in England.
After a slow start in Chelsea blue, Poyet would go on to become a fan favourite at Stamford Bridge. The 26-time Uruguay international clocked up 145 appearances for Chelsea and would score 49 goals.
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Alongside 16 assists, Poyet also held five different trophies aloft during his four years in West London. A UEFA Cup Winners Cup, a SuperCup, an FA Cup, a League Cup and a Community Shield in Chelsea blue.
But for some, Poyet slightly tarnished his Chelsea stint when he decided to remain in London and join Tottenham. Poyet would remain at Spurs for three seasons before a brief stint at minnows Swindon Town.
Gus Poyet admits he has a stronger connection with Chelsea
A favourite among Blues supporters, Poyet’s record for Chelsea is often forgotten. A midfielder who scored a goal every three games is incredibly impressive, almost a goal or an assist every two outings.
But Poyet also played 98 times for Spurs and would then work at Tottenham as an assistant manager under Juande Ramos. So, which club does Poyet feel he has a stronger connection with, Chelsea or Spurs?
He told the World Football Index: “I have good memories and respect for Tottenham. Not as strong as Chelsea because of the trophies, but I appreciate what they did for me. I also enjoy going back to watch.”
Gus Poyet’s managerial career includes a league and cup double
After assistant manager roles at Swindon Town, Leeds and Tottenham, Poyet finally earned his first stint as a manager at then-League One side Brighton. He lasted almost 200 matches in charge of the Seagulls.
Sunderland came next but after an impressive start, his time would unravel and AEK Athens came next for the Uruguayan. Spain would be the third country he’d manage in, taking charge of La Liga side Betis.
After just 11 games, he moves to Chinese Super League side Shanghai Shenhua. Bordeaux in France was next before a surprise move to Chile with Universidad Catolica, where he finally won his second trophy.
The SuperCopa de Chile was his second title as a manager after winning League One with Brighton and it earned him the chance to manage Greece. After two years in charge, he added another new country.
South Korea was next, winning the League and Cup double during the K-League’s 2025 campaign with Jeonbuk Motors. Now, Poyet is awaiting his next managerial role, with a return to England in his sights.
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