Mauricio Pochettino faces increasing pressure as Chelsea suffered another defeat, this time at the hands of Everton. Abdoulaye Doucoure and Lewis Dobbin’s second-half goals ignited a frenzy at Goodison Park, marking Chelsea’s second consecutive loss in the northwest.
Commencing with a 4-3-3 formation, Chelsea’s Mykhailo Mudryk showcased promise on the left side, particularly against veteran Ashley Young. Despite a lack of threat to Everton’s goal in the initial 45 minutes, Chelsea maintained some control, a reassuring contrast to their recent Old Trafford disappointment.
The first half saw the unfortunate exit of captain Reece James due to a recurring leg issue, adding to his injury woes. Armando Broja struggled to convert control into goals, often finding himself isolated despite promising link-ups with Ashley Young and Nathan Patterson.
While Mudryk impressed on the wing, his difficulty in delivering a decisive final-third ball persisted. Cole Palmer, though effective, faced criticism for excessive shooting, impeding potential Chelsea attacks. Enzo Fernandez’s forward movement overshadowed Moises Caicedo and Conor Gallagher in midfield.
In the second half, Chelsea hesitated to commit too many players forward during counterattacks, leaving Mudryk and Broja isolated. Everton capitalized, taking the lead through Doucoure, erasing any advantage Chelsea had perceived. Dobbin’s late goal secured Everton’s victory in extra time.
Chelsea exhibited marginal improvement post their dismal performance against Manchester United, but concerns among fans persist. Pochettino, navigating the complexities of Chelsea’s long-term project, finds himself under intensified scrutiny. While the club is likely to support the Argentine, the importance of victories in football raises doubts about his tenure, especially with seven Premier League losses this season.
As questions loom over Pochettino’s future, the once-doubtful fans now grapple with heightened uncertainties about Chelsea’s trajectory in the league.
