Lampard points out the challenges awaiting Pochettino at Chelsea

According to Frank Lampard, new Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino will have to set new standards, restructure the squad, improve the players' fitness and spirit.

"I like Pochettino as a manager and I appreciate his ability. But it's not about the individual manager, it's about creating the conditions for him to do his best work. Pochettino has done well at clubs with high management levels, allowing him to work with the players and create a clear identity to win more games. But those things don't happen overnight," Lampard told Sky Sports on May 29.

According to news expert Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea has signed a three-year contract with Pochettino, the former Tottenham and PSG coach. This decision is a decision that will please Chelsea fans because Pochettino once turned Tottenham into a force in the Premier League and is considered one of the top strategists. For most of last season, Chelsea was led by Graham Potter, who is only known for his time leading Brighton.

Pochettino is expected to help Chelsea regain its glory days. Photo: Reuters — Pochettino is expected to help Chelsea regain its glory days. Photo: *Reuters*

After Chelsea sacked Potter, Lampard was appointed as interim manager and just ended his term with a 1-1 draw with Newcastle in the final round of the 2022-2023 Premier League. This is the worst Premier League season in the club's history when they only ranked 12th with 44 points after 38 matches, meaning they are only four points above the relegation zone.

"After six weeks here, I see there is a lot of work to do to get the team back on track. Overall, the collective standards at Chelsea have dropped, I can be honest about that because this is my last game so I won't have to deal with these issues again," Lampard continued.

The 44-year-old coach also said that Chelsea players did not find a common voice in the dressing room and lacked leadership. But according to Lampard, coaches can only help partly, it is the players who need to take responsibility for this.

Another issue Chelsea need to address is squad reduction. They spent $740 million on 19 players last season, leaving many stars without playing time and affecting team morale. According to Lampard, “reducing the size of the squad and improving player fitness” are technical issues that fall under Pochettino’s remit, and “winning the trust of the players will be key” for the Argentine coach to succeed.

"Pre-season is very important for the new manager. Chelsea are not physically fit enough to compete. The new manager also needs to restructure the squad. That is the biggest challenge besides getting to know the players, who for some reason are lacking in desire. These issues must be resolved," added the former England midfielder.

Vinh San (according to Sky Sports )

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