The Argentine manager had faced increasing pressure in recent weeks following lackluster performances against Liverpool and Wolves within just a week’s time. However, his Chelsea team responded emphatically on Wednesday evening, delivering a commanding performance against Aston Villa to secure advancement to the FA Cup fifth round. Pochettino emphasized his detachment from external distractions and reiterated the necessity for patience with his exceptionally youthful squad.
In an interview with ITV following the 3-1 victory, the Chelsea manager expressed his tranquillity, stating, “Other things worry me in life, but not football. Today I was more relaxed than ever because I knew the team would perform. You know when the players are with you and care for you. I could fee it after [the loss to] Wolves. We are talking about the youngest team in the Premier League, but with expectations so high. It’s normal sometimes the players feel the pressure to be in the top four and challenge for big things. It’s not easy to manage these things. Our belief is 200% but maybe around our environment there are some noises, but that’s just football.”
The “noise” Pochettino alludes to emanated from various quarters of the Chelsea fanbase following Sunday’s disappointing 4-2 defeat to Wolves at home. Stamford Bridge supporters didn’t hold back in expressing their discontent, not only through boos but also by chanting the names of former manager Jose Mourinho and ex-owner Roman Abramovich. In addition to the fan reactions on social media, Thiago Silva’s wife, Belle, also joined in, further amplifying the discord. Pochettino, however, sought to downplay the controversy.
Enzo Fernandez’s remarkable goal in the second half means that his last three goals for Chelsea have all come in cup competitions, including strikes against Preston in the FA Cup third round and Middlesbrough in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg.
Pochettino and Chelsea will be eager to ensure that Wednesday’s impressive outcome doesn’t turn out to be another fleeting success this season. Their youthful squad will aim to build momentum with a victory against Crystal Palace on Monday. Despite the intense scrutiny on Pochettino, he remains poised to potentially secure a cup double in his inaugural season in charge.
Chelsea performance and stats
Chelsea is currently in the FA Cup with points.
In the last 3 games, it has won twice and drawn once. In its last match, Chelsea won 1-3 against Aston Villa.
It has a even goal difference after scoring goals and conceding .