Frank Christian
Mikel Arteta praises Mauricio Pochettino for Chelsea’s revival.
The Blues are set for a London derby against Arsenal this Sunday at Stamford Bridge, currently placing ahead of them on goal difference after a strong start under Enzo Maresca.
Arteta, who previously worked alongside Maresca as an assistant to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, acknowledges the positive changes Maresca has implemented since taking over for Pochettino this summer.
The current USMNT head coach inherited a tumultuous situation in west London but has successfully navigated it as they enter the 2023/24 season.
“I’m really impressed with what [Maresca] has achieved, but also with what they managed under Mauricio; those last six months were remarkable,” Arteta stated during his pre-match press briefing.
“You could see the squad’s talent, the depth of players available, and Enzo has added his own style. You can clearly see his vision for the team.”
“He has shown great courage from the very start by sticking to his principles. I know his mentality well; many people I know are thrilled to see his progress.”
Throughout both Pochettino and Maresca’s time at Chelsea, Cole Palmer has emerged as a key player in their attack. If Palmer can recover from an injury sustained against Manchester United, Arteta is prepared with a strategy.
“That’s a challenge all managers in the league have faced recently, yet he continues to positively influence the game,” he remarked.
“Of course, we will have a specific plan, not just for Cole, but to counteract their overall quality and threats while seeking to exploit any weaknesses, as we would against any opponent.”
