“I’m more experienced” — Pochettino on facing Klopp in a Final

Chelsea’s head coach, Mauricio Pochettino, has offered insights into his team’s preparations ahead of Sunday’s Carabao Cup final against Liverpool, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a calm and composed demeanor amidst the excitement of a potential trophy triumph.

In his pre-match press conference, Pochettino, drawing on his wealth of experience in coaching and finals, expressed a relaxed outlook ahead of the showdown at Wembley Stadium. “I am so relaxed,” stated the 51-year-old. “I’m more experienced, and I’ve played finals in Paris – I think the approach is very calm and relaxed.”

Pochettino stressed the need for his team to focus solely on the game itself, cautioning against expending unnecessary energy by dwelling on the fixture too far in advance. “We need to start the game at 3pm on Sunday,” he asserted. “Preparing for the game is different from starting the game because we are preparing in a really good way.”

Reflecting on Chelsea’s previous encounter with Liverpool at Anfield, which ended in disappointment for his side, Pochettino expressed a determination to approach the final with renewed vigor. “We are Chelsea and we want to go there and compete with the same tools,” he affirmed.

While acknowledging Liverpool’s prowess and the coaching acumen of Jurgen Klopp, Pochettino emphasized the need for his team to remain focused solely on their own objectives. “We want to win because we are Chelsea,” he declared. “But no other part involved in the game should feel part of the celebration for Klopp. That is important.”

Regarding tactical preparations, Pochettino highlighted the importance of identifying and capitalizing on the opponent’s weaknesses while acknowledging the formidable challenge posed by Liverpool. “We are learning for our game and trying to see and find a way to punish them,” he explained.

Pochettino also emphasized the importance of patience and gradual progress, drawing parallels with Liverpool’s own journey under Klopp. “It took Liverpool and Klopp four years until they won their first title because it is a process with the players,” he noted.