MAURICIO POCHETTINO will see the man who ended his playing career in the opposite dugout tonight - and he claims he is thankful.
Ernesto Valverde took over Espanyol in 2006 and immediately axed Pochettino, who was 34 at the time.
Tearful Poch said goodbye in an emotional press conference before hanging up his boots - although he insists the duo have buried the hatchet.
The Spurs chief, 46, said: That day, it was difficult to understand his position but I talked to him in pre-season, when we played Barcelona in Los Angeles, and I completely understand.
He arrived at Espanyol at not a good time for me. I could not see it at the time but I can now.
In football, you are always protected by this bubble and then, when somebody shows you the reality, it can surprise you."
Valverde decided to axe veteran defender Pochettino as he felt he had too much influence in the dressing room and undermined predecessor Miguel Angel Lotina, which the Argentinian denies.
Pochettino has had time to reflect on the incident and in glad for the chance to move into management.
He added: "These things show you that situations in life and in football change very quickly and, when one door closes, many others open.
"I never wanted to be the victim and I am now going to face the coach who gave me the opportunity to become a coach.
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