(Credit: Imago)

Mousinho speaks out as Portsmouth exit confirmed

Alex is a lifelong Sunderland supporter who's been reporting on Mackem News since April 2025. Indeed, he started working for Breaking Media in April and has since graduated from St Mary's University as a NCTJ Gold Standard-accredited journalist, having completed his Master's degree in Sports Journalism. Alex previously worked for Football League World and has featured on the Roker Report, providing his opinion on all things Sunderland. While getting to the games is tricky, given his job, one of the highlights of his life was watching (and crying) as the Black Cats defeated Sheffield United at Wembley Stadium last season.

Published on:

15 May 2025, 2:00 pm

John Mousinho must be given heaps of credit for keeping Portsmouth in the Championship at the first attempt.

Despite lingering in the relegation zone for most of the season, he was able to steer Pompey clear of the relegation zone with time to spare.

However, with their Championship status confirmed, the 39-year-old has had to make some big decisions ahead of next season.

Mousinho has made some decisive calls on his squad. (Credit: Imago)

Mousinho discusses Kusini Yengi exit

Portsmouth recently announced their retained list, with Cohen Bramall, Tom Lowery, Alexander Milošević, and Anthony Scully all departing Fratton Park.

Perhaps the most contentious name leaving the South Coast club is Kusini Yengi, who will also leave when his contract expires in June.

Portsmouth's 2024/25 released list

Kusini Yengi

Cohen Bramall

Tom Lowery

Alexander Milošević

Anthony Scully

Pompey released five players this campaign

The Australian international played a pivotal role in Pompey lifting the League One title in the 2023/24 season, scoring nine goals.

However, this season he has failed to make an impact, making just 14 appearances in all competitions.

Speaking to the club website, Mousinho explained the decision not to retain Yengi's services at Fratton Park.

He said: “Kusini had a really successful 2023/24 campaign here and was pivotal in us winning the league.

“For a number of reasons, it hasn’t quite worked out for him this season, and obviously, there were a few injuries.

“So we’ve given him the opportunity to see what’s on offer elsewhere, and I’m sure there will be a lot of interested parties."

Kusini Yengi will leave Fratton Park (Credit: Imago)

Portsmouth must keep Mousinho to progress

Mousinho's Pompey future is in the air, with several enticing offers for the 39-year-old on the table.

Championship rivals West Brom and Norwich City have both taken notice as they look to appoint a new manager.

Hull City recently sacked Ruben Selles, and Michael Carrick's future is in doubt, meaning more could come calling.

The former Burton Albion player has worked wonders since taking over as Portsmouth boss, lifting the League One title and ensuring Championship survival.

During his reign, he has overseen 124 matches, winning 56, drawing 34, and losing 34. His points-per-match ratio is not to be sniffed at, with an average of 1.63 points.

If he stays, then he can push the South Coast club on to bigger and better things next season.

However, if they lose him, then they risk undoing all the good work he has put in over the years.

John Mousinho

Kusini Yengi