Mauricio Pochettino, Chelsea’s current manager, has candidly addressed the challenges he faces at Stamford Bridge, attributing the team’s struggles to the shortcomings of his predecessors, Frank Lampard and Graham Potter.
Reflecting on Chelsea’s disappointing campaign last year, which culminated in a 12th-place finish, Pochettino acknowledges the prevailing negative atmosphere at the Bridge and emphasizes the need for a turnaround through consistent victories.
In a statement ahead of the Carabao Cup quarterfinal second-leg against Middlesbrough, Pochettino points out that the repercussions of the 18 months preceding his tenure are impacting the current situation. Despite being at the helm for only six months this season, the manager acknowledges that the disappointment from past seasons continues to affect the fans’ perspective.
Pochettino conveys, “We are now paying for the effect of the 18 months before my time.” While recognizing an improvement in the team’s performance during his tenure, he notes that the residue of previous seasons has left fans dissatisfied. The manager emphasizes the importance of winning to uplift the environment at Stamford Bridge, emphasizing the team’s responsibility to connect with the supporters.
Acknowledging a lapse in judgment, Pochettino admits, “The team didn’t interact with the fans,” leading to moments of low energy during certain games, such as those against Brentford or Nottingham Forest. The manager candidly addresses the mistake made and highlights the incredible support from the fans in the remaining games.
As Pochettino navigates the challenges of reshaping Chelsea’s image and performance, he remains cognizant of the impact of past seasons on current sentiments.
The manager’s candid assessment underlines the complexity of the task at hand and the importance of fostering a positive connection between the team and its supporters. Moving forward, Pochettino aims to address the lingering effects of previous disappointments, with a focus on creating a more vibrant and engaging atmosphere at Stamford Bridge through sustained success on the field.
