Chelsea, under the leadership of Mauricio Pochettino, has had a disappointing season. The frustration is mounting as the team currently sits ninth in the Premier League table, a far cry from their expected position at the top.
After significant investments in players like Moises Caicedo, Nicolas Jackson and Cole Palmer during the summer transfer window, hopes were high for Chelsea to reclaim their spot at the top of Premier League. However, these expectations have been dashed as they find themselves 16 points behind fifth-placed Aston Villa and a staggering 27 points adrift of leaders Arsenal.
A recent leak from inside Chelsea's dressing room has revealed that Pochettino and his coaching staff are frustrated with two key players - Mykhailo Mudryk and Raheem Sterling. These wingers have failed to make an impact this season despite their potential.
Key players have been biggest disappointment for Blues
Ukrainian winger Mudryk was expected to shine after his £88 million move to Chelsea in 2023. However, he has managed only six goals and three assists in 33 appearances this season - far less than anticipated.
Similarly, England international Raheem Sterling hasn't lived up to expectations either. Despite making 38 appearances across all competitions for Chelsea during this campaign, he has managed just eight goals and eight assists.
Summer window likely to bring new faces at Stamford Bridge
Given these circumstances, it is reported that Chelsea will be on the lookout for a new winger when the summer transfer window opens again. Nico Williams from Athletic Bilbao is one name that has been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge over recent weeks.
Pochettino expressed his disappointment after their recent 2-2 draw against bottom side Sheffield United, further highlighting the need for change.
Mauricio Pochettino, Chelsea manager, said:
“It is about being able to compete. For different reasons we are struggling to compete in these type of games [against lesser teams].
“Maybe [it is] because this group is not mature enough to compete in games every three days. It is a new team with profiles in the squad that we are learning," said the Chelsea boss. "That is why the process to build a team always takes time. It is not a magic thing [clicks fingers].
“When we talk about projects, we talk about three or five years. It is a normal process but we are working to fix this type of problem. When we arrive at the end of the season, we need to analyse the squad to see what we are missing and try to add people with the capacity to provide [solutions for] what we are seeing today.”
The current season has been a tough one for Chelsea fans and Mauricio Pochettino. The underperformance of key players and the team's overall position in the league have led to mounting frustration. However, with potential new signings on the horizon, there is hope that Chelsea can turn things around in time for next season. For sports fans and sports betting enthusiasts alike, it will be interesting to see how these developments unfold.
