Chelsea’s Troubles: Pochettino In Peril?

Libby Hooper

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Chelsea is steadily securing newfound status as a mid-table club. While no football club is exempt from having its highs and lows, seeing a club with such historic success decline so rapidly is alarming. But where has it all gone wrong? And could we see a sixth manager take over the Blues in under two years?

The Season So Far

Only weeks ago, after losing the Carabao Cup final to a youthful Liverpool side, Chelsea were branded “blue billion-pound bottle jobs” by commentator Gary Neville. Though harsh, this summarises Chelsea’s 2023/24 season: having spent more than £1 billion over three transfer windows and lacking success both in and outside the Premier League.

The club currently sits 11th in the Premier League table, with 11 wins of 27 matches played. As the sea their name out son progresses, more worrying stats emerge, reflecting the Blues’ struggle. For example, this Premier League season, Chelsea conceded four or more goals in four matches—their most in a campaign since 1990/91.

“a managerial change could be key to unlocking the potential of this Chelsea squad.”

While younger players have had impressive stats and cameos (Cole Palmer has 11 league goals this season, and Nicolas Jackson has nine), there is a lack of consistency and ability to finish. This has left Chelsea in a dire situation, haunted by their poor attacking form. Despite their extensive summer spending, the squad seems weak, as Chelsea has yet to sign a reliable striker.

Their huge budget and glimpses of excellence from certain players have not been enough to propel Chelsea forward. So, how can the Blues recover? A managerial change could be key to unlocking this squad’s potential.

Is Pochettino’s Project In Doubt?

Mauricio Pochettino became Chelsea’s manager a year after his sacking from Paris Saint-Germain in 2022. Since assuming the role in July 2023, Pochettino has had the burden of breathing new life into this struggling club.

Chelsea’s troubles are not unique to Pochettino’s reign. They ended the 2022/23 Premiern in 12th place, a League season-high decline from their third-place finish the season before.

However, the Argentine faces criticism for failing to meet expectations and generating results.  With poor attacking quality and more goals conceded under Pochettino than under former (non-interim) manager Graham Potter, it appears Pochettino’s leadership does not bode well for the Blues. These issues have persisted despite Pochettino having had a full preseason with the squad – a privilege denied to Potter.

Regarding stats, Pochettino has achieved lower average points per match (PPM) at Chelsea than at his former two clubs (PSG and Tottenham Hotspur). This is despite the expense and quality of this Chelsea squad. Recognising this, Pochettino has even stated that Chelsea’s performances and results are ‘not matching the club’s history‘.

These disappointing outcomes and a fanbase hungry for immediate results have aroused vocal discontent among Chelsea fans.  Fans have been vocal in their hostility, as, during Chelsea’s 2-2 draw away to Brentford in early March, the fans were chanting in opposition to Pochettino. This was paired with chants of former manager José Mourinho’s name, who, during his two tenures, has won the Blues seven major trophies, including three league titles.

https://twitter.com/TheAthleticFC/status/1764599416642851143

Pochettino’s Potential At Chelsea

While Chelsea are struggling, it is worth questioning whether this managerial change is warranted. Of course, there is only so much Pochettino can control. It is no easy feat to work with one of the youngest squads in the league, replete with new signings lacking chemistry and experience playing together. Trying to yield results while a team is in a phase of rebuilding is a tough project.

“the blues are still in for a chance at winning silverware this season”

Plus, it has not been entirely downhill under Pochettino. There have been some standout performances from Chelsea F.C. this season, showing potential for Chelsea to thrive under his management. This includes draws both home and away to reigning league champions Manchester City and against current league leaders Arsenal.

Beyond the league, Pochettino took Chelsea to the Carabao Cup final. The Blues are still waiting for a chance to win the FA Cup this season.

While some stellar performances have been, these often fail to translate into three points. These shortcomings are keeping Chelsea languishing in the bottom half of the table. As such, the question of Pochettino’s ability to return Chelsea F.C. to its former heights remains.

What’s Next For Chelsea?

Chelsea’s new battle is to finish in the top half, with former dreams of league titles and even UEFA Champions League qualification now appearing out of reach.

“the run-up to summer will be crucial in determining Pochettino’s fate.“

Reports continue to state that Pochettino’s job remains secure, at least until the summer. It is also worth noting that Chelsea may not be able to afford to sack Pochettino or remove him without breaching Financial Fair Play regulations. This means his turbulent tenure may persist into the 2024/25 season.

While Pochettino’s job is reportedly safe, names of potential successors have been circulating in the media – with notable figures such as former boss Thomas Tuchel and Brighton manager De Zerbi being tossed into the mix.

Regardless, the club must decide to terminate Pochettino’s contract prematurely before summer to avoid wasting money on a vision that will fail.

While Chelsea’s future remains uncertain, one thing is certain: the summer run-up will be crucial in determining Pochettino’s fate.

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Featured image courtesy of Simon Reza on Unsplash. No changes were made to this image. Image license found here.