Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino finds himself under pressure at Stamford Bridge as the 2023/24 season draws to a close – but the Argentine can count on the support of Cole Palmer.
The Blues had hoped that the huge investment made by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital would lead them back to the Champions League this season, but instead they will have to settle for a spot in the Europa League or Conference League.
However, this is a more positive outcome than it seemed they would likely achieve just a few short weeks ago, with Pochettino’s side on the charge at the end of the season.
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On Wednesday, their strong run of form continued against Brighton as they picked up a 2-1 win away from home.
Christopher Nkunku, injured for so long this season, got what proved to be the winner after Palmer had scored his 22nd Premier League goal of the campaign to put Chelsea in front 10 minutes before the break.
Palmer subsequently spoke out in Pochettino’s favour to the media.
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“All credit to the manager,” he said. “All the players love the manager and want to fight for him.
“For it to be in our hands to get sixth place is a big thing for us.
“Chelsea are a big club and everyone wants to finish higher than sixth but you have to look at where we were at the start of the season.”
Pochettino giving little away
Pochettino was not forthcoming in predicting what will happen at the end of the season but did admit he was satisfied with what he saw.
“I’m proud. To face a team like Brighton is always difficult here. We’re so happy because the three points mean we are closer to achieving what we want,” he said.
“People only care about rumour and things like this. It’s not important. The most important thing is winning games for me. It’s been tough in the circumstances.”
While sixth might be enough to save Pochettino’s job this season, a similar finish next term is unlikely to please the Chelsea board.
