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Tag: Mauricio Pochettino

Mauricio Pochettino Claims Referees Show Bias Towards Liverpool in Matches Against Chelsea
By Daniel Edu
Chelsea’s manager, Mauricio Pochettino, has raised allegations of biased officiating against his team when facing Liverpool. Pochettino asserted that crucial decisions rarely favor Chelsea in their encounters with Liverpool, citing the recent game at Anfield on January 31, 2024, where he claimed that several important calls went in favor of Liverpool, resulting in a 4-1 victory for the Reds.
With Chelsea and Liverpool set to meet again in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, February 25, Pochettino expressed his concern not about Liverpool’s current form but rather about the possibility of key decisions going against Chelsea. This marks the third domestic final in three years involving the two clubs, with Liverpool winning both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup finals during the 2021-2022 season.
Pochettino, the former Paris Saint-Germain manager, urged referee Chris Kavanagh, who will officiate the Carabao Cup final, to ensure fairness. He emphasized his desire for impartial officiating and expressed a wish to play a game at Wembley without feeling pressured, emphasizing the importance of a level playing field.
Pochettino stated, “When we played against Liverpool at Anfield, I think too many decisions … not one key decision was for us. Two penalties were not given. Duels, 50-50s, always for another colour. Always red. I want to be treated fairly.” Despite acknowledging Liverpool’s prowess, he stressed the importance of fair officiating to ensure a competitive and pressure-free match.
February 24, 2024
Mauricio Pochettino Praises Chelsea Star Ian Maatsen, Affirms His Place in the Plans
By Daniel Edu
Mauricio Pochettino, the manager of Chelsea, has expressed his satisfaction with the young Dutch talent, Ian Maatsen, and confirmed that he is part of his plans for the upcoming season.
Maatsen had a successful loan spell at Burnley in the Championship last season and has continued to impress during the pre-season preparations.
Pochettino spoke highly of the versatile player, stating, “I am so happy with him. He is a player that can play in different positions. He has quality, understands the game, and is an intelligent player.”
The manager is pleased with Maatsen’s attitude, commitment, and understanding of the game, which has contributed to his inclusion in Pochettino’s plans. With his ability to play in various positions, Maatsen brings valuable versatility to the team, making him a valuable asset for the coaching staff.
Pochettino expressed his appreciation for having such a player in the squad, as it provides flexibility and options to adapt the team’s tactics and strategy during the season.
July 29, 2023
Chelsea Confirms Mauricio Pochettino As Their New Manager
Mauricio Pochettino has been confirmed as Chelsea’s new permanent head coach.
Chelsea announced Pochettino’s appointment with the Argentinian signing an initial two-year deal that also includes a club option of an additional one year.
Pochettino will bring with him his trusted backroom team members, Jesus Perez, Miguel d’Agostino, goalkeeper coach Toni Jimenez plus son and fitness coach Sebastiano Pochettino.
The club announced his arrival in a Twitter post.
In a statement, the club said: ‘Mauricio’s experience, standards of excellence, leadership qualities and character will serve Chelsea Football Club well as we move forward.
‘He is a winning coach, who has worked at the highest levels, in multiple leagues and languages. His ethos, tactical approach and commitment to development all made him the exceptional candidate.’
Club co-owners Boehly, Behdad Eghbali, Jose E. Feliciano, Mark Walter and Hansjorg Wyss added in a joint statement: ‘The sporting team conducted a diligent and thoughtful process that the Board is proud of.
‘We are delighted that Mauricio will be joining Chelsea. Mauricio is a world-class coach with an outstanding track record. We are all looking forward to having him on board.’
The Argentine – who has been out of work since being sacked by PSG last summer – emerged as the frontrunner for the job after Julian Nagelsmann dropped out of the running and has impressed owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali. He will become their fourth manager since they took control of the club.
May 29, 2023
Messi and Pochettino can form special bond, Ardiles says
Former midfielder Ossie Ardiles believes Lionel Messi will form a stronger bond with Mauricio Pochettino than he has with any other manager after the Argentina captain’s move to Paris.
Messi has signed a two-year deal with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) after Barca were unable to keep the superstar forward for financial reasons.
Former Argentina midfielder Ardiles expects the six-time Ballon d’Or to revel in playing under his compatriot Pochettino.
Ardiles also feels the presence of fellow Argentinians Angel Di Maria, Mauro Icardi and Leandro Paredes can only be a positive for Messi.
“Messi is not just Argentinian, but a global player. Of course he is able to play with anyone and he is also able to play at any style of game. This is how enormous his game is,” Ardiles said.
“But it helps to have that many Argentinians. Mauricio, for instance, is from the same city [as Messi], Rosario. Obviously, they speak the same language.
“It will be very important for Lionel Messi to have Mauricio there. Messi got along well with almost every manager, but I think it will be even better with Mauricio.
“Being with Di Maria, Paredes and Icardi will help, but I also think these players don’t play the full Argentinian style. They are very global. Icardi has been in Italy and now at PSG.
“The same (goes) for Paredes or Di Maria, being also in English football. From that point of view, there won’t be any issue, for sure.”
Messi scored 672 times in 778 appearances for the Blaugrana, winning the UEFA Champions League four times and claiming 10 LaLiga titles.
The 34-year-old was reduced to tears during an emotional farewell news conference and Ardiles fears for Barca following the departure of the inspirational skipper —- especially considering the desperate state of the club’s finances.
Ardiles added: “Barca stay very, very hurt. Actually, the situation is absolutely critical. To lose the best player in the world is tough.
“He has spent 20 years in the club, he is the symbol, the captain ……. he is everything. I really think there are coming very tough times for FC Barcelona.”
August 11, 2021