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Mauricio Pochettino sheds light on showdown talks with Marc Cucurella after failed Man Utd transfer.
Mauricio Pochettino discussed his conversation with Marc Cucurella after the player’s failed effort to leave Chelsea in the summer.
While the Chelsea manager was not involved in Cucurella’s transfer talks throughout the summer, he did speak with the player separately after the window closed and stated his expectations and plans to the Spaniard.
Pochettino also lauded the left-back’s performance against Brighton in the Carabao Cup midweek match.
Speaking on the full-back’s failed transfer in the summer, Pochettino told reporters, “I don’t know because I wasn’t involved in this situation, that was more the sporting director, the [player’s] agent and the club,” he said.
“After, when the transfer window closed, we were talking in my office. We were really clear about how I see and assess him and I listened to his feelings. Of course, it was a difficult time for him after he arrived from Brighton. It was tough, not only for him but many, many players.”
He added, “That’s why we need to give confidence and trust in him. He is our player and I think he was really good against Brighton on Wednesday playing on the right-hand side. I think he was doing well and I am so happy about his performance and commitment. That’s what we expect from our players. Now, it is about working, waiting for the opportunity and working really hard. It is a really clear situation, he is in our plan. If he deserves to play, he will play.”
Cucurella wanted to leave Stamford Bridge in order to get more playing time, and a loan transfer to Manchester United was mentioned. After an attempt to sign the Spanish defender fell through, the Red Devils ultimately signed Sergio Reguilon.
Cucurella may anticipate making his first appearance for Chelsea this season in a Premier League game when they take on Fulham on Monday, now that he has the coach’s support after a strong showing in the Carabao Cup.