The Chelsea coach, Mauricio Pochettino, shed light on his decision to start Raheem Sterling over Mykhailo Mudryk in a conversation featured on Chelsea’s official app. Pochettino emphasized Sterling’s readiness to play despite recently recovering from a virus. He commended Sterling’s early-season performance and noted his strong motivation to regain his spot in the lineup.
Pochettino affirmed, “Raheem comes in after overcoming a virus, and we know the value he brings to our team from the beginning of the match.” He emphasized that the decision wasn’t about altering their overall strategy but rather exchanging one quality player for another, highlighting the depth and strength within the Chelsea squad.
Acknowledging Mudryk’s recent good performances, Pochettino explained that the team didn’t need to deviate from a strategy that had proven successful in previous matches. He acknowledged the competitive nature of football, indicating that both Mudryk and Sterling were talented players. Pochettino hinted at Mudryk’s playing style, heavily reliant on speed and explosive plays, making him a player susceptible to being substituted.
The Chelsea manager conveyed the understanding that players like Mudryk, whose gameplay relies on speed and agility, are always subject to potential replacements. He acknowledged Sterling’s youthfulness combined with significant experience, suggesting that Sterling could make a substantial impact in the game. Despite starting on the bench, Mudryk remained prepared to contribute and support the team if needed, particularly in the second half.
Overall, Pochettino’s decision to start Sterling over Mudryk was driven by Sterling’s recovery from illness, his prior strong performances, and the belief that both players could effectively fulfill their roles within the team’s strategy. The goal was to maintain a high level of play and maximize the team’s potential for success, showcasing the depth and adaptability of the Chelsea squad.
