“I promise you will see him against newcastle” – Pochettino explains why he left fans frustrated for dropping 26-year-old Chelsea player against Sheffield United
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!In the aftermath of Chelsea’s clash with Sheffield United, Mauricio Pochettino found himself fielding questions about a conspicuous absence from the starting lineup – Christopher Nkunku. The decision to bench the highly anticipated player left fans frustrated, prompting inquiries from BeinSports.
In his post-match flash interview, Pochettino offered insight into his rationale, citing a cautious approach rooted in Nkunku’s recent return from a serious injury. The Argentine manager explained that, given the long season ahead, he opted not to take unnecessary risks by fielding the attacking midfielder from the start.
Pochettino emphasized, “I didn’t want to take a risk. Christopher has just recovered from a serious injury, and with many games still ahead, risking him when we were already in a winning position wasn’t a gamble I was willing to take.”
The coach’s decision became evident during halftime when it became clear that Nkunku, despite being the sole unused substitute, hadn’t warmed up. Pochettino acknowledged the frustration among fans but highlighted the strategic reasoning behind the move.
“With the lead secured, the prospect of introducing Nkunku diminished. It was a calculated decision, considering the limited alternatives. Nkunku’s presence on the bench served more as a morale boost, and the game situation dictated our approach,” explained Pochettino.
The manager’s commitment to safeguarding Nkunku’s fitness, especially in light of recent injury concerns within the squad, underscored the pragmatic approach adopted by Pochettino. As Chelsea navigates a demanding season, Pochettino’s measured decisions aim to balance short-term success with the long-term well-being of key players, ensuring a strategic and sustainable approach to squad management.
