Mauricio Pochettino believes that Chelsea is in the process of constructing something and is confident that results will improve soon after their unexpected home defeat against Nottingham Forest on Saturday. Despite dominating the game with 75.9% possession, 21 shots, and a expected goals (xG) score of 2.13, Chelsea ultimately suffered a loss due to Anthony Elanga's goal, which secured Forest's first victory at Stamford Bridge since January 1995.
Despite investing £419m in new signings this summer, exceeding Pochettino's spending during his tenure at former club Tottenham over a span of five years and 11 transfer windows, Chelsea's success in the Premier League this season has been limited, with only one win thus far - a convincing 3-0 triumph against newly-promoted Luton Town last week. Nonetheless, despite a staggering expenditure of over £1bn under the ownership of Todd Boehly-Clearlake Capital, Pochettino remains composed and urges patience as he strives to construct a formidable squad capable of competing with their adversaries.
Chelsea head coach admitted that they were not efficient in both attacking and defensive aspects against Nottingham Forest. While they made an error that led to the goal, they did generate chances. However, their failure to convert those opportunities into goals made it challenging for them to secure a victory. The coach believed that experiences like this match would contribute to their maturity as a team, emphasizing the importance of not only possessing skill but also being able to compete in diverse ways.
"Undoubtedly, we cannot deny that we were in need of a better outcome. However, in the unpredictable realm of football, statistics often mirror one's performance; in this particular scenario, we were indeed proactive in generating opportunities, although we regrettably failed to convert them into goals, only managing to direct a few shots towards the goal.
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Pochettino has called for patience after Chelsea lost for the second time in four Premier League games
We are in the process of constructing something, and it is characterized by its fluctuations. Unfortunately, we have been unfortunate in our recent matches against West Ham (resulting in a 3-1 defeat) and today. However, as I have mentioned previously, I firmly believe that success is just a matter of time.
During the team-building process, in situations where we are attacking and in the midst of intense gameplay, there is a tendency to make impulsive decisions and hurriedly pursue opportunities. Yet, it is crucial to remain composed and composed, rather than being overly eager.
Merson: Chelsea were slow and mundane
Despite Pochettino's optimistic evaluation, pundit Paul Merson was unimpressed with Chelsea's performance."Forest displayed exceptional defense, demonstrating their commitment by sacrificing their bodies. When a team positions 10 players behind the ball against Chelsea, it becomes incredibly challenging for them to penetrate the defense," he commented on Soccer Saturday.
"The pace of their gameplay is lackluster and tedious. They fail to consistently apply pressure and trap opposing teams. Their offensive efforts lack potency. This has been a persisting problem for a few years."
Big-spending Chelsea still a work in progress
We're thrilled to be at Stamford Bridge:In Chelsea's matchday programme ahead of Forest's arrival at Stamford Bridge, Pochettino expressed his satisfaction with the development of his newly-formed team. Following a sluggish beginning to his tenure, back-to-back victories against Luton and AFC Wimbledon had significantly boosted morale in the western part of London.
Despite the lackluster performance, there were faint glimmers of hope in both matches, instilling a sense of optimism in Pochettino regarding Chelsea's trajectory. Consequently, Saturday's unexpected loss to Forest on home turf will undoubtedly sting the former Tottenham manager, serving as a significant obstacle on the path to success.
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Cole Palmer came off the bench to make his Chelsea debut but couldn't help his side to find an equaliser
Chelsea's status as a work in progress is evident. Pochettino's endeavor to establish his influence on a young squad will require time. With an average age of 24.5, Chelsea's starting XI against Forest showcases their youthful lineup. Pochettino's adeptness at nurturing talent is unparalleled, making him the ideal candidate for this task.
Confident in his ability to discover a winning formula and implement his captivating style of football at Chelsea, Pochettino remains realistic. After an unprecedented expenditure of £434.5m during the summer transfer window, he understands that Todd Boehly and the club's higher-ups anticipate tangible advancements sooner rather than later.