Mauricio Pochettino's press conference after win against blackburn in Carabio Cup.

 Mauricio Pochettino's Full Post-Blackburn Press Conference

Mauricio Pochettino, the manager of Chelsea, recently held a post-match press conference following his team's victory against Blackburn Rovers in the Carabao Cup. The conference shed light on various aspects of the game, including player fitness, squad rotation, and the importance of the Carabao Cup for Chelsea, especially given their absence from European competitions this season. Pochettino addressed these topics and more during the press conference, providing valuable insights into his team's strategy and goals for the future.

Pochettino began by emphasizing the significance of advancing in the Carabao Cup and the importance of building confidence among his players, specifically mentioning Benoît Badiashile and Reece James. He acknowledged the value of providing playing time to these players, highlighting their roles in the squad's development. Pochettino's statement revealed his commitment to nurturing and integrating younger talents into the team, considering their long-term development as a crucial component of his management strategy.

Mauricio Pochettino: "After Saturday it was important for us to go through the competitions. Build the confidence, players like Badiashile and James to play an hour is very important. In November it is like a pre-season game because of this situation."

The manager also spoke about the match itself, touching on the condition of Reece James, who played an hour in the game. Pochettino revealed that the plan was to assess James' fitness at halftime, given the player's recent return from injury. He noted that James started to feel tired after 15 minutes of the second half, prompting a decision to make a substitution. Pochettino's approach to player management underscores his concern for the well-being of his squad members, particularly those who are recovering from injuries. His emphasis on a gradual return to full fitness reflects a meticulous and cautious approach to managing his players.

Mauricio Pochettino: "The plan was to check at half-time how [Reece James] feels. After 15 minutes he started to feel tired and the second half he was a little bit tired and we need to be careful how we manage him. In that moment we made a change. It's important now, the progression to be careful and not to go back. We cannot avoid 100% risk but the plan is to go little by little."

Pochettino's words also provided insight into Chelsea's aspirations in the Carabao Cup. When asked about the team's chances of winning the competition, he expressed optimism, indicating that Chelsea should consider it a priority. With Chelsea not participating in European competitions this season, the Carabao Cup presents a unique opportunity for the club to secure silverware and establish their dominance in domestic competitions. Pochettino's acknowledgment of the importance of the Carabao Cup demonstrates his determination to pursue success on multiple fronts.

The manager also stressed the importance of having Reece James back in the squad. He described James as one of the best full-backs in the world, emphasizing the value of his fitness and contributions to the team. Pochettino expressed his desire to see James gradually regain full fitness to meet the demands of Chelsea's busy schedule. The return of key players like James is crucial to Chelsea's ambitions, and Pochettino's comments underscore the importance of having a fit and capable squad.

Mauricio Pochettino: "It's really important [to have Reece James back]. It's important they, your captain stay fit and can help the team. One of the best full backs in the world. Little by little he will get fit and cope with the demand of the games."

In summary, Mauricio Pochettino's post-match press conference provided valuable insights into his management philosophy and Chelsea's objectives. He emphasized the significance of progressing in the Carabao Cup and the need to build the confidence of young players like Badiashile and James. Pochettino's cautious approach to player management, especially in the case of Reece James, demonstrates his commitment to ensuring the well-being of his squad. Furthermore, his acknowledgment of the Carabao Cup as a priority for Chelsea this season reflects the team's desire to achieve success on the domestic front. Finally, Pochettino's praise for Reece James highlights the importance of key players staying fit and contributing to the team's goals. Overall, his words offer a glimpse into his vision for Chelsea's future success.

Mauricio Pochettino: "Yes, I think so [start to think about winning the Carabao Cup], we need to think this is an important competition for us because we are not in Europe and this should be a priority for us."