Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino has delivered a strong message to players returning from injury, stating that they should not assume entitlement to regular playing time.
This statement came in response to questions about the potential debut of Romeo Lavia, drawing parallels with Christopher Nkunku, who recently made his first appearance for Chelsea six months after joining.
Pochettino emphasized that players returning from extended periods of absence need to recognize the competitive nature of the team.
He stressed that the players must train diligently to make a significant impact when given the opportunity to play.
“Lavia is similar to Nkunku when he arrived and couldn’t make his debut. After nearly six months maybe, he will be involved with the team. He is doing well but he still needs time to get his best form.
“I want to make clear, all of the players after a big period out, they are desperate to be involved. They want to be involved but in which way? We are competing and the competition is serious.
“After six months, they need to understand they need to train really hard every day, double the players that are fit because they need to be an impact every time they go to the pitch,” he said.
In light of Chelsea’s extensive list of summer signings and a series of injuries affecting the squad, Pochettino explained that the timing of a player’s return makes it challenging to integrate them seamlessly into the lineup.
“It’s not pre-season,” Pochettino stated.
“It is six months. For many things, it is an excuse, for many it is ‘I want to play; if I don’t have time, I cannot perform.’ You need to understand, and the players need to understand, it is not charity. We need to win, we must win.”
Pochettino expressed disappointment in situations where players, eager to contribute, may not find immediate opportunities due to the competitive landscape within the team.
The manager acknowledged that the selection process is based on current readiness and performance, noting that certain players may need more time to adjust after a prolonged absence.
