As Chelsea concluded their pre-season with an unbeaten run, Mauricio Pochettino expressed concern over Christopher Nkunku’s knee injury sustained during the 1-1 draw against Borussia Dortmund in Chicago. The French forward’s availability for the Premier League opener against Liverpool remains uncertain, prompting the team’s medical staff to closely monitor his condition. While Pochettino acknowledges the need for reinforcements, the coach is also cautious about making too many additions to the squad.
Assessing Nkunku’s Injury:
Pochettino highlighted the significance of assessing Nkunku’s injury, which occurred during the match against Dortmund. The forward was forced off in the first half, leaving Chelsea to hope for the best regarding the extent of the damage. With the Premier League season approaching, the club is eager for a quick recovery, as Nkunku’s impressive performances in pre-season have made him a key player in the squad.
Pitch Conditions and Pochettino’s Perspective:
Despite questions surrounding the pitch’s contribution to Nkunku’s injury, Pochettino refrained from blaming the playing surface. He acknowledged that the facilities were designed for a different sport, but emphasized that injuries are sometimes a matter of unfortunate circumstances and should not be solely attributed to the pitch.
Encouraging Performances and Squad Planning:
During pre-season, Chelsea witnessed some positive displays, including Mason Burstow’s goal that secured an unbeaten record. Pochettino was particularly impressed with Levi Colwill’s performance alongside Thiago Silva in central defense, raising the possibility of him starting against Liverpool.
However, Pochettino is aware of the areas that need improvement. The manager expressed a desire to strengthen the midfield and confirmed ongoing discussions with Brighton & Hove Albion over a potential deal for Moisés Caicedo. Additionally, Nkunku’s injury could prompt Chelsea to expedite their efforts to sign a striker, potentially involving Romelu Lukaku in a deal with Juventus for Dusan Vlahovic.
Balancing Squad Additions and Starting Lineup:
Despite the desire to bolster the squad, Pochettino is cautious about introducing too many new faces. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, the manager believes the starting lineup against Dortmund will closely resemble the one against Liverpool. The choice for the captain’s armband remains uncertain, with Reece James a possibility, alongside veteran Thiago Silva.
Chelsea’s pre-season ends with a mix of optimism and injury concerns. As the team awaits updates on Christopher Nkunku’s knee injury, Mauricio Pochettino aims to strike the right balance between squad improvements and maintaining cohesion within the starting lineup. With the Premier League opener against Liverpool on the horizon, the club is eager to build on their pre-season performances and address key areas to ensure a successful campaign ahead.
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