Chelsea’s head coach, Mauricio Pochettino, has underscored the imperative of impartial officiating in Sunday’s Carabao Cup final, urging match officials not to yield to any perceived pressure to favor Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool farewell.

In a press conference on Friday, Pochettino reflected on Chelsea’s recent 4-1 Premier League defeat at Anfield, lamenting decisions that seemed to tilt in Liverpool’s favor. 

He particularly highlighted a penalty appeal involving Virgil van Dijk’s challenge on Conor Gallagher, which went unrecognized by the officials.

“It is no pressure for him. Maybe it is people who want to celebrate with Liverpool that he is leaving.

“I think what we need to be sure is we are going to compete and be fair in every single decision. I think when we play against Liverpool in Liverpool, I think too many decisions that … not one key decision was for us.

“Two penalties were not given. Duels, 50-50, always for another colour. Always red. I want to be treated in a fair way. Of course, we are going to celebrate — I am the first, I am going to say Liverpool is amazing, Klopp is one of the best coaches in the world.

“But I think after my last experience playing there, I think what I want in Wembley is to go there and no one feels the pressure. To play a game at the same level and the best will win, not to feel the pressure, people around or, you know? You understand what I mean.

“It is nice. Liverpool is an amazing club. I love Klopp and the way that he is, is amazing. But of course, it is his last season here, you go to compete in the same way, both teams and to give or see the things for both clubs in the same way.”

Responding to queries about potential extra expectations on Liverpool or Klopp due to the manager’s imminent departure, Pochettino emphasized the paramount importance of fairness and impartiality in officiating. 

He expressed the desire for a level playing field devoid of external pressures, stating, “I think what we need to be sure is we are going to compete and be fair in every single decision.”

Acknowledging Liverpool’s illustrious legacy and Klopp’s esteemed coaching prowess, Pochettino stressed the need for equitable treatment and fair competition, irrespective of sentimental narratives surrounding Klopp’s farewell season. 

He remarked, “Liverpool is an amazing club. I love Klopp and the way that he is, is amazing. But of course, it is his last season here, you go to compete in the same way, both teams and to give or see the things for both clubs in the same way.”

Regarding Thiago Silva’s fitness, Pochettino provided a glimmer of hope, stating that the experienced defender “has a chance” to feature in Sunday’s clash as he continues to recuperate from a groin injury. 

The Brazilian’s potential return would undoubtedly bolster Chelsea’s defensive line for the high-stakes encounter at Wembley.