May 7th 2024.
Former professional footballer Paul Merson recently shared his thoughts on Chelsea's performance under manager Mauricio Pochettino. According to Merson, the team needs to strengthen in two key positions in order to catch up to the likes of Arsenal, Manchester City, and Liverpool.
Despite their recent success, Chelsea is currently in seventh place in the Premier League, far from the Champions League spots and even further from league leaders Arsenal. At one point during the season, Pochettino's job was in jeopardy, but the team's improved form and progress in the cup competitions have given fans hope for the upcoming 2024-25 season.
Merson acknowledges that Chelsea still has a long way to go to compete with top teams in the Premier League. He believes that securing a spot in the Champions League should be the team's main goal for next season. However, he also stresses that Pochettino will need additional support in the transfer market and urges the club to sign an experienced center-back to replace the departing Thiago Silva, as well as a new striker.
"Chelsea haven't been consistent enough," Merson shared in an interview with Sky Sports. "They've been good in the cups, which is what can happen when you have a young team. They're doing well at the moment and are right in the race for Europe."
Merson believes that in order to maintain consistency, Chelsea needs to bring in experienced players who can handle tough situations and help calm the team down when things aren't going well. He also points out that with Silva leaving, the team will need a new leader in defense. Additionally, a new center-forward would also be beneficial for the team's success.
"With the ambition of getting back into the Champions League next season, Chelsea needs to start closing the gap between themselves and Arsenal and Manchester City," Merson stated. "This is Chelsea we're talking about, not just any average team. They're used to winning trophies and will want to continue that, not just settle for a fourth-place finish like Tottenham and celebrate about it."
He also expressed his confidence in Pochettino remaining as manager for the upcoming season, stating that he has always believed in the Argentine coach's abilities. Merson emphasizes that individual players cannot win titles, and as long as the team continues to work together and improve, they will be successful.
Chelsea, coming off a dominant 5-0 win against West Ham, has three more Premier League games left before the end of the season. It remains to be seen if they will be able to secure a spot in the Champions League, but with Pochettino at the helm and potential reinforcements in the summer, the future looks bright for the Blues.
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