Revealed: The key change Mauricio Pochettino wants at Chelsea ahead of pivotal job review

Pochettino’s future at Chelsea is set to be determined following an end-of-season review, but the Argentine manager wants a significant change in the club structure, according to The Guardian. He has expressed a desire for more control over player signings and has been vocal about the need for changes in the club’s direction as he is not entirely content with the sporting directors, Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  There is a concerted effort within Chelsea to ensure that Pochettino does not feel “undervalued before the review” as the manager had caused quite a stir after claiming “this is not my team” after the 2-1 win over Brighton. The process, which will involve input from Winstanley, Stewart, and the club’s co-owners Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, aims to address the manager’s concerns and secure his commitment to the club.

  Boehly has publicly praised the team’s recent form, highlighting the attractive style of play Chelsea has showcased during their winning streak which has fired them to sixth place in the Premier League standings and has bolstered their chances of European participation in the next season.

  WHAT BOEHLY SAID

  “The number-one thing is you have got to be patient,” Boehly said. “You are putting something together and expecting it to come together really quickly, and the reality is anything really good takes a little bit of time. And so I think patience was always a thought.”

  DID YOU KNOW?

  Pochettino has garnered strong support from the dressing room, with players backing his methods and vision. His approach has brought cohesion to a squad assembled rapidly and with a focus on acquiring the best young talent globally. They have seen an upsurge in form since Christmas and the manager’s influence is evident in the performances of key players such as Nicolas Jackson, Malo Gusto, Moisés Caicedo, and Cole Palmer.

  However, Chelsea also recognise the work done by Stewart, Winstanley, and Joe Shields, the co-director of recruitment and talent. Despite facing criticism earlier in the season, the recruitment team is now seen as proving their worth. The efforts to build a competitive squad under challenging circumstances have not gone unnoticed.

  

  WHAT NEXT FOR POCHETTINO?

  As Chelsea prepares for the crucial review that will determine Pochettino’s future, the focus remains on finishing the season strongly. The final matchday fixture against Bournemouth offers the chance to secure fifth place and a spot in the Europa League, which would mark a significant achievement given the difficulties faced earlier in the campaign.