Pochettino questions credibility of Chelsea squad in European competition

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Apr 14, 2024

Pochettino admitted the team’s injury problems will need to be addressed.

Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino doesn’t trust his squad to handle the European campaign this season if they were in European qualification. He feels injury would have hurt them in this process.

The Blues boss is struggling with injury issues as Chelsea will miss 11 players for the Premier League game against Everton. Enzo Fernandez and Raheem Sterling are the latest doubts for the clash at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea are playing their first season without European competition since 2016/17, and only their second since 1996/97, following a 12th-place finish in the Premier League last season.

They are fighting hard and due to their unbeaten run of seven games, they are in contention for Europa League or Conference League.

Pochettino admitted the team’s injury problems will need to be addressed if they are to take on more games next season.

“Imagine if we had played in Europe this season, with all the circumstances (injuries)? Oh my goodness,” said the 52-year-old.

“With a squad that is always between eight and 10 players missing in every single game. If you add more games, we would struggle a lot.

“Now it’s about experience, to have all the information to try to help the club to take the best decisions to avoid things like happened this season.

“That is out principal focus, to try to define a squad that can be fit, or have more than 80 per cent availability.”

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Chelsea could break all-time English football goal record vs Everton

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Vaibhav Purohit

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Apr 13, 2024

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Chelsea target dropped out of consideration for Blues ahead of summer window

Chelsea sets sights on historic goal record ahead of Everton showdown

Chelsea is on the edge of making history when they meet Everton in an important Premier League match at Stamford Bridge on Monday. The Blues hope to break the English football record by becoming the first team to score and give up at least twice in eight consecutive matches.

With their recent defensive troubles, Chelsea’s attacking power has been clear, with goals putting easily in their last seven matches. Their current run began with an amazing 3-2 FA Cup win over Leeds United, and they’ve scored against Brentford, Newcastle United, and Leicester City.

However, Mauricio Pochettino’s side has also been leaking goals, resulting in high-scoring encounters such as their 4-3 win over Manchester United and a dramatic 2-2 draw with Burnley.

With their porous defense, Chelsea has managed to go seven matches unbeaten since falling to Liverpool in the League Cup final. Their toughness will be tested against Everton, a team they have struggled with in recent seasons.

After having a flawless home record against Everton in their last 28 Premier League meetings at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea have drawn their last two games. In addition, a 2-0 loss in the reverse encounter earlier this season puts them in danger of suffering a rare double defeat to the Toffees.

Chelsea will rely on Cole Palmer, who has been in prolific form, to make up for their earlier loss and become the first Chelsea player to score in seven straight Premier League matches at home. With history at risk, all eyes will be on Stamford Bridge as Chelsea seeks to etch their name in the annals of English football.

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Chelsea target Victor Osimhen reach an agreement to join PSG this summer?

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Gulshan Sharma

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Apr 12, 2024

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Chelsea target Victor Osimhen reach an agreement to join PSG this summer?

Hawkins confirms Victor Osimhen hasn’t closed the door on returning to Ligue 1.

There were reports that Chelsea faces a big blow in their pursuit of Victor Osimhen as he agreed to join Paris Saint-Germain this summer. Meanwhile, French journalist Fabrice Hawkins has shut down speculation.

Osimhen is a huge target for Chelsea and he can solve Pochettino’s attacking issues next season. The Nigerian striker is heavily expected to leave Napoli this summer.

Victor Osimhen has a release clause that makes him available for around €120 million. Big European clubs are planning to sign him in the summer.

Chelsea are the front-runners in the race to sign the Nigerian striker. PSG are also looking at him as an ideal replacement of Kylian Mbappe who is leaving the club at the end of the season.

Hawkins confirms the 25-year-old hasn’t closed the door on returning to Ligue 1. Osmihen has scored 14 goals and provided four assists in 26 games across all competitions.

The Serie A striker was instrumental for Napoli last season to win the English top-flight. If the asking price is so high, Chelsea can take a backstep to sign him. They have Nicolas Jackson to lead the attack for future perspective.

VfB Stuttgart’s Serhou Guirassy is also a good option for Chelsea and his release clause makes him available for just £17m. The 28-year-old has scored 24 times in 22 Bundesliga appearances this season.

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Pochettino and Chelsea staff are unhappy with development of Mykhailo Mudryk

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Vaibhav Purohit

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Apr 11, 2024

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Mykhailo Mudryk backed to come good at Chelsea — Bildbyran

Chelsea Manager Mauricio Pochettino frustrated with Mykhailo Mudryk’s progress

Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino and his coaching staff have been reported to be increasingly frustrated with the progress of 23-year-old attacker Mykhailo Mudryk. With huge expectations following his £88.5 million signing from Shakhtar Donetsk in 2023, Mudryk has not lived up to the hype at Stamford Bridge.

After showing promise with Shakhtar, Mudryk was courted by several elite clubs, with Chelsea eventually signing him. However, his transition to the Premier League has been far from easy. The Ukrainian international has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter, scoring only six goals along with two assists in 33 games this season.

Pochettino and his coaching staff, who came over last summer, are believed to be particularly upset by Mudryk’s lack of presence on the field. The winger was expected to be a vital role in Chelsea’s attacking formation, but he has failed to deliver regularly, leading to the club to explore signing new players for the coming season.

In light of Mudryk’s poor performances, Chelsea are presumably looking into Athletic Club’s Nico Williams as an option to improve their offensive options. Rumors claim that discussions to sign the talented winger are already started.

With speculation over Mudryk’s future at Chelsea growing, questions remain about whether he can turn things around and justify the considerable investment put in him. As the club looks for potential new signings, Mudryk is under increasing pressure to prove himself and save his Chelsea career.

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Enzo Fernandez believes he’s yet to show his full potential with Chelsea

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Vaibhav Purohit

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Apr 10, 2024

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Chelsea FC most expensive player: Enzo Fernandez — bildbyran

Enzo Fernandez admits unfulfilled potential at Chelsea

Enzo Fernandez, the Argentine midfielder, believes he has yet to reach his full potential since moving to Chelsea more than a year ago.

Considering his spectacular World Cup success with Argentina and a high price tag, Fernandez is facing criticism, especially from the media and a faction of Chelsea fans.

Fernandez accepts the scrutiny and hints at a compromise with his critics, saying there is room for improvement.

‘I’m trying to get there, to the version of me that you saw at the World Cup,’ Enzo explains via the Chelsea website today. ‘I want to feel like that Enzo, that was playing at the World Cup. I want to get back there

‘I feel good, getting better each day, but I still don’t feel like I’m at 100 per cent. I’m still adapting and still don’t feel entirely myself, but I’m trying to get there as quickly as possible and working hard every day in order to do so.

‘It won’t be easy because the World Cup has been and gone, and I’m still growing as a player and developing my skills, but I’m looking for that Enzo. I want to feel completely myself again.

‘The first six months were difficult for me. I found it hard to adapt but now I feel so much more prepared than at the start. But I’m enjoying it so much.

‘Maybe personally I’m still not 100 per cent and don’t feel like I’ve shown my potential, but beyond that I love being at a club as big as Chelsea, enjoying the Premier League every weekend with the fans that are so passionate. I love being here.’

His outstanding exploits during Argentina’s World Cup victory portrayed him as a player with enormous potential, boosting expectations further following his high-profile move to Chelsea.

However, in light of Chelsea’s overall underperformance, Fernandez’s troubles appear to be part of a wider collective issue. He has also struggled to establish a steady rhythm due to the club’s many managerial changes.

As Fernandez continues to manage the challenges of English football, the spotlight is on him to justify his high price and demonstrate the abilities that made him such a valuable asset.

Fernandez is determined to silence his critics and meet the huge expectations placed on him at Stamford Bridge.

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Mark Ogden shares the real reason Chelsea haven’t sacked Mauricio Pochettino yet

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Vaibhav Purohit

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Apr 10, 2024

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Chelsea boss Pochettino responds after boos at Raheem Sterling during FA Cup tie — Bildbyrån

The Real Reason Chelsea Haven’t Sacked Mauricio Pochettino Yet

Mark Ogden, in a recent appearance on the BBC Radio Five Live Football Daily Podcast, has shed light on the mystery surrounding Mauricio Pochettino’s tenure at Chelsea. Despite the Blues languishing in mid-table mediocrity, the Argentine tactician has managed to evade the dreaded sack.

Ogden pointed fingers at the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability regulations, suggesting that these rules have tied Chelsea’s hands. While overspending shouldn’t be condoned, he argued, the current regulations inadvertently create pressure to persist with underperforming managers.

“He has a year left on his contract so in terms of compensation it won’t cost a lot, but I was told about a month ago that the reason both Pochettino and Eddie Howe are safe unless something dramatic happens, is because both clubs have posted such big losses they can’t afford to sack a manager, pay up, appoint a new guy and pay his compensation.

You’re talking £20-25m, and in an era when clubs need to keep their losses small, they can’t afford to get rid,” Ogden said.

This revelation underscores the complexities clubs face in the modern footballing landscape. Chelsea, known for their trigger-happy approach to managerial changes, find themselves in a conundrum. The dilemma: whether to adhere to financial constraints or prioritize on-pitch success.

Looking ahead, Ogden hinted at potential sacrifices in the transfer market. Chelsea might forego a few signings this summer to facilitate the appointment of a new manager capable of steering the club towards their desired trajectory.

As the season unfolds, all eyes remain on Stamford Bridge, awaiting developments that could reshape the club’s fortunes on and off the field.

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Chelsea target dropped out of consideration for Blues ahead of summer window

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Gulshan Sharma

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Apr 9, 2024

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Jacobs admits that Chelsea didn’t make any offer for Gyokeres in the January window.

Chelsea are looking at best striker options ahead of the summer transfer window. As per current update, their main transfer target is out of Chelsea’s reach.

The Blues didn’t invest much in previous winter transfer window. They are keen to make huge investment in upcoming window but they will be aware of the FFP rule.

The West London club are targeting the Sporting striker Viktor Gyokeres in summer. He remains their main priority and best part is his club is ready to sell him out.

Viktor Gyokeres is the first Sporting player to hit 𝟱𝟬 goal contributions in a season since Bruno Fernandes 🟢⚪️ pic.twitter.com/d52FlvBTn9

— 𝗠𝗨𝗡𝗜𝗥𝗨👻🇬🇭 (@Official_Skylah) April 1, 2024

Chelsea will struggle to sign him and he wouldn’t be cheap though due to a large release clause. As per the reporter Ben Jacobs sepaks on it via exclusive inside Chelsea column for SPTC.

Jacobs also admits that Chelsea didn’t make any offer for Gyokeres in the January window. He adds: “Viktor Gyokeres is not a player Chelsea bid for in January, despite reports in Portugal, and it’s understood he’s dropped out of consideration as it stands. Perhaps one reason why is because Sporting want €100m.”

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Cole Palmer absolutely furious with Nicolas Jackson during Sheffield United clash

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Vaibhav Purohit

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Apr 8, 2024

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Fulham-Wolves eyeing a loan move for Chelsea striker Armando Broja

Cole Palmer’s frustration erupts in Chelsea’s clash against Sheffield United

Cole Palmer, Chelsea’s midfield star, caught in rage during today’s match against Sheffield United, when emotions spilled over on the field. The popular player found himself at conflict with colleague Nicolas Jackson, whose performance left Palmer visibly furious.

Palmer’s displeasure was evident throughout the first half. With Chelsea’s possession domination, they struggled to capitalize, with Jackson’s inconsistent play drawing Palmer’s ire. The tension ended when Sheffield United’s Jayden Bogle equalized, increasing Chelsea’s dissatisfaction.

Observers pointed out Palmer’s obvious displeasure with Jackson’s ball control, as the £30 million striker failed to make the most on enticing openings.

Palmer, whose rise to fame for Chelsea has been spectacular, did not mince words while expressing his displeasure, repeatedly raising his arms in frustration.

Jackson’s inconsistency has been a sign of Chelsea’s rollercoaster season, reflecting the club’s highs and lows. While Jackson is capable of brilliance, his erratic play frequently irritates fans and teammates alike, as Palmer’s outburst proved.

Palmer’s standards as Chelsea’s linchpin are sky-high, and his enthusiastic reaction reflects the degree of performance he expects from himself and his teammates. The incident displays Palmer’s relentless devotion to excellence and his critical role in propelling Chelsea forward.

In the aftermath of today’s clash, questions linger over Chelsea’s ability to maintain consistency in their pursuit of success, with Palmer’s frustration serving as a poignant reminder of the team’s imperfections.

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Chelsea ‘lack solidity’ according to Mauricio Pochettino following Sheffield United draw

By

Gulshan Sharma

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Apr 8, 2024

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Chelsea 'lack solidity' according to Mauricio Pochettino following Sheffield United draw — Bildbyrån

Pochettino’s side is now on a seven-match unbeaten streak in the Premier League.

Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino was not impressed with his squad’s performance against Sheffield United. He feels that his players are struggling to find a balance between defence and attack.

The West London club were playing against Sheffield United and they failed to replicate their previous Man United show. They scored two goals in the final minutes to beat Man United 4-3.

Chelsea were going ahead in the game with the help of the strokes from Thiago Silva and Noni Madueke. Oli McBurnie spoled the party and scored the equaliser in the 93rd minute.

Chelsea are now on a seven-match unbeaten streak in the Premier League with 12 points to their name but they are without a clean sheet in nine fixtures. Pochettino’s men have conceded at least twice in the most recent five matches.

While talking to reporters, as quoted by football.london, the Argentine said: “Very frustrating because we conceded in the first-half after we scored. Then you concede in the last few minutes, you always feel very disappointed and frustrated.

“I want to say the draw is a fair result. Even if we control and have possession, we didn’t create enough. We didn’t show the capacity to be solid and be strong. That is the painful situation.”

He added: “The first part of the season we were a little bit more solid but were not creating as much. Now we are scoring much but conceding more. It’s difficult to find the balance. We tried adapting the situation with different players and different situations on the pitch.

“The team is not showing in the last few months the capacity to be solid. We score goals but we are conceding and that is why they punish us.”

Chelsea are now sitting at ninth position in the Premier League standings, five points behind of sixth-placed Manchester United with a game in hand.

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TalkSPORT pundit now claims he would pick West Ham’s Jarred Bowen over Cole Palmer

By

Vaibhav Purohit

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Apr 7, 2024

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Chelsea midfielder Cole Palmer faces injury on England Under-21s duty

TalkSPORT Pundit prefers Jarrod Bowen over Cole Palmer

TalkSPORT pundit Dean Saunders has stirred up controversy by asserting his preference for West Ham United’s Jarrod Bowen over Chelsea’s Cole Palmer.

Despite Palmer’s sensational season, including a recent hat-trick against Manchester United, Saunders remains steadfast in his choice of Bowen for any team.

Dean Saunders said: “He is a really good footballer, he sees a pass, he is silky on the ball and he sees chances and he sees goals. But I can’t put him ahead of Saka or Foden. I bet I’ve left a few out there.

“Bowen! Would you put Bowen in the team? I’d put Bowen in ahead of Cole Palmer in any team! I like Bowen.”

Bowen, who has amassed 15 goals and five assists in the Premier League this season, presents a compelling case with stats mirroring Palmer’s impressive tally.

Moreover, the 27-year-old boasts a more extensive track record at the senior level compared to Palmer, who is still relatively new to consistent top-flight action.

Saunders’s endorsement of Bowen over Palmer adds to the ongoing discussion surrounding England’s abundance of attacking talent, particularly ahead of Euro 2024.

While Palmer’s recent form for Chelsea has been nothing short of remarkable, including crucial performances in high-stakes matches, Saunders emphasizes Bowen’s established presence and consistent contributions for West Ham.

As the debate rages on, all eyes turn to Gareth Southgate, tasked with making the tough decision between two standout talents for the national team.

With Palmer’s meteoric rise and Bowen’s proven reliability, Southgate faces a compelling dilemma that could shape England’s attacking strategy for the foreseeable future.

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