the complete text of Mauricio Pochettino’s remarks from his post-game press conference following Chelsea’s thrilling victory over Newcastle United
Mauricio Pochettino smiles after Chelsea beat Newcastle United at Stamford Bridge (Image: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Following Chelsea’s crucial victory over Newcastle United, Mauricio Pochettino was in a very good mood.
Talk about the head coach’s future at the team and whether or not he would be forced out of Stamford Bridge predominated before the game. However, it’s evident that the Blues players are still playing for Pochettino after their strong showing to defeat the Magpies.
In a jam-packed Stamford Bridge media room, Pochettino answered questions on a range of subjects. And with that, Bobby Vincent presents to you the complete transcript from the Argentine down below.
What needs to happen for Mudryk to get a run of games with the squad?
“It was a really good goal, and we expect an impact from a player who came off the bench. He scored a really good goal. Next, he will have to compete with other players for the position that he deserves to play. He should ask that question more than I should.
Tonight there was a little pressure. Was that a significant victory?
“I believe it’s important to recognize that we are in Chelsea, and some people may naturally become confused when involved in a project that is entirely unrelated. It is challenging when people refuse to listen, but we are making an effort to explain that we are in a different Chelsea and are creating something new, so it will undoubtedly be challenging.
“It is important to have faith in the face of adversity, such as the 120-minute final we played in. Three days later, we play in the FA Cup before taking on Brentford. We played three extremely difficult games in six days, almost all with the same squad, and the players were extremely worn out.
“It’s okay if that means we’re a disaster; what matters most is that neither the team nor we are being impacted. The group was aware of what needed to be done, and we never gave up. I believe that in order for us and our supporters to win the game today, we need to be a little bit more composed. It will become an issue once more if we lose the following game, but that is Chelsea, and the most crucial thing is to attempt to adapt to the situation as it is.
“While I don’t want to rehash the circumstances, some issues are unfounded. The issue lies in the fact that the team needs to be more cohesive and mature. The defensive line of Marc Cucurella, Trevoh Chalobah, Axel Disasi, and Malo Gusto played together for the first time today. Yes, they were excellent, but we made some errors as a result of their previous inability to perform together.
But that’s not a justification. That is a reality and a fact. The most crucial thing is to keep going because, although we all agree that the fans have every right to be upset, we have no right to give up and declare that we don’t believe. Instead, we must remain strong and never give up. No, no, no. It’s to demonstrate the character’s ability to handle this kind of circumstance and move on.
“It was fantastic to watch the players today battle, perform—okay, maybe not so well—but obviously care about the team and ultimately defeat a team that competed for the Premier League, the top four, and the Champions League the previous season. Newcastle is a very good team, and this season has good players. It’s not easy. Well done, everyone and the team.”
As he crossed the field at the conclusion of the game, Todd Boehly grinned at me. Was he happy, did he tell you?
Yes, he did arrive with his son, and Behdad [Eghbali] may have also. Every owner was present. Yes, we had a pleasant conversation that lasted just a short while because I had to leave for the press conference and interview. Indeed, it went well, and the bond is strong.”
Do you believe Nicolas Jackson is getting better and developing?
“Yes, without a doubt. It goes without saying that we must comprehend the player when they are young and arrive from outside of England; they must first become familiar with the Premier League. To perform, they must also be familiar with their teammates. However, he is doing incredibly well.
“His work rate is extremely high, and there is constant effort in the way he presses.” He obviously possesses the quality. He will become more clinical and more composed in front of the goal as he plays more games and gains experience. We believe he is capable, but we must maintain our faith that he can be Chelsea’s offensive player and striker who scores a ton of goals for the team.”
Cole Palmer: was he a steal?
“Look, I believe he is succeeding. He must have arrived on the final day of the transfer window because it was so simple for him to fit in with the team and the coaching staff’s expectations. He is definitely a valuable addition to the squad and team, and I believe he is displaying his abilities.
“He’s doing things that, perhaps in the past, were a little bit dependent on having a player who could link the game. He is doing great right now, growing in maturity every day, and while I believe he still has room for improvement, he is doing a great job overall.”
