Chelsea’s trust in Mauricio Pochettino remains solid despite an underwhelming start to the season.
Following another summer characterized by significant spending, the atmosphere within the club is more composed than anticipated. Instead of giving in to panic, Chelsea’s management has diligently scrutinized data to believe that the tides will turn if they maintain their composure.
Despite being positioned in the Premier League’s bottom half, data analytics suggest that Chelsea should rank much higher. Analyzing key performance metrics shows Pochettino’s tactics have been consistent, with the team often outpacing their opponents.
The club’s ownership under Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital has seen significant upheaval, with Pochettino being their fifth managerial appointment. Their extravagant spending, amounting to £1bn on new recruits within a year, has raised eyebrows, particularly as Chelsea struggles with financial fair play considerations. Moreover, the club’s absence from European competitions this year and their limited league victories since April further adds to the scrutiny.
Pochettino, on his arrival, witnessed a mass movement of players, with 14 senior members leaving and an equal number of young talents coming in. The club’s strategy seems to be focussed on the future, opting to bring in players under 25 years, suggesting a long-term vision.
However, youthful inexperience has at times been a bane for Chelsea. Incidents like Malo Gusto’s red card against Aston Villa and Nicolas Jackson’s suspension highlight the squad’s naivety. The team’s attack also seems wasteful, with their only goal in September coming from Jackson.
The fans’ growing dissatisfaction is palpable, evidenced by boos after recent league games. The departures of academy players like Mason Mount, Lewis Hall, and Callum Hudson-Odoi have been met with skepticism. And while Chelsea has invested heavily in players like Enzo Fernández and Moisés Caicedo, they have yet to find their stride.
Pochettino and the club’s co-sporting directors, Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart, are under increasing pressure. With mounting financial concerns, including a potential $500m investment for a new stadium and talks of selling a stake in the club, Chelsea’s higher-ups are eager to see a return to form.
