Considering the challenges that Pochettino faces with injuries, it is crucial for him to quickly win over the Chelsea fans as the results have not convinced them. Already, fans have some names in mind.
Mauricio Pochettino's early days as Chelsea's manager have been marked by several challenges, raising questions about his ability to steer the team in the right direction. While it's essential to consider the significant number of injured first-team players, Pochettino's team selections and tactical choices have come under scrutiny.
One notable example was his decision to play center-back Levi Colwill at left-back in a match against Bournemouth, a choice that lacked the attacking threat that a more suitable player might have provided.
Furthermore, Pochettino's willingness to deviate from a select group of trusted first-team players, a trait observed during his tenure at Tottenham, needs reevaluation at Chelsea. With the depth of talent available in the Chelsea squad, he should consider using his players more wisely to play to their individual strengths. For instance, the promising Ian Maatsen was available to start at left-back, and Cole Palmer, who showed promise during the international break, could have been given an opportunity to contribute from the beginning, which might have allowed Enzo Fernandez to rest.
Chelsea's progress under Pochettino has been slow, with only one win in their first five Premier League games and five points from a possible 15. While injuries have played a significant role in disrupting their early-season momentum, their inability to convert scoring opportunities has been a major concern. The absence of players like Christopher Nkunku, known for both scoring and creative play, has been deeply felt.
Considering the challenges Pochettino faces, it's crucial for him to win over the Chelsea fans quickly. Despite understanding the mitigating circumstances, the era of social media means that patience can wear thin, and fan sentiment can shift rapidly. Some Chelsea supporters have already started discussing the idea of pursuing Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi due to the team's slow start to the season.
The longevity of Pochettino's tenure at Chelsea remains uncertain. While the club's owners initially viewed him as the ideal long-term option for the transitional phase, subtle improvements and a lack of convincing victories have raised doubts.
Past decisions, such as the dismissal of Graham Potter at Brighton, demonstrate that the club's hierarchy may bow to fan pressure and act ruthlessly. To keep both the fanbase and ownership onside, Chelsea must demonstrate significant improvement in the coming weeks to avoid any potential managerial changes.