“Everyone Loved Him” – Chelsea Star Reflects on Mauricio Pochettino’s Impact

Chelsea playmaker Cole Palmer has expressed his and his teammates’ disappointment at Mauricio Pochettino’s departure from Stamford Bridge last week.

The Blues concluded their season with five consecutive Premier League victories, securing a sixth-place finish. However, just two days after their final win, Chelsea announced that they had parted ways with the Argentine by mutual consent.

Leicester City boss Enzo Maresca is now poised to succeed Pochettino, with the Italian’s reputation bolstered by winning the Championship title with the Foxes in 2023-24. Reports suggest that Maresca is willing to work within Chelsea’s business model and adopt their preferred tactics, which played a crucial role in Pochettino’s exit.

“Everyone Loved Him”

Despite facing challenges this season, it was evident that the squad’s development was progressing under Pochettino. Palmer, who thrived under the 52-year-old, scoring 25 goals and providing 15 assists in his first 45 appearances for Chelsea, shared his thoughts on Pochettino’s departure.

In an interview with The Sun, the 22-year-old England international expressed his disappointment, emphasizing the strong support Pochettino had within the team.

“When he first came, he laid the foundations and made sure everyone knew what was required,” Palmer said. “Then he started to teach us what he wanted to do, but we needed that base first. As a man-manager, he would push you if you slacked off. He was really good for me, kept me relaxed, and we had a great relationship.”

“He had a tough job, with half the team injured, including some very important players. It was difficult for him, but everyone loved him. All the players did, and he was very important to me as well.”

Palmer to Reunite with a Familiar Face

While Palmer is saddened by Pochettino’s exit, he is set to reunite with a familiar figure in Maresca. The former Manchester City prospect previously worked with Maresca during the 2020-21 season when Maresca managed Man City’s Under-23s. During that season, Palmer contributed 13 goals and six assists in 16 Premier League 2 matches.

When Maresca moved up to Pep Guardiola’s coaching staff, Palmer had also been promoted to the senior ranks, giving them another year to work together.