Mauricio Pochettino determined to win over Chelsea fans amid backlash

In a tumultuous encounter against Brentford on Saturday, Mauricio Pochettino faced a barrage of discontent from Chelsea fans, who vehemently demanded his departure during the second-half of the Premier League clash.

Despite the backlash, the Blues boss remains resolute in his determination to mend the strained relationship with the supporters.

Chelsea opened the scoring with a sublime header from Nicolas Jackson in the 35th minute, but, failed to hold on to the lead as Brentford equalized through Mads Roerslev within minutes of the second-half and Yoane Wissa scored in the 69th minute to take the lead for the home side.

Axel Disasi managed to make the scoreline 2-2 during the latter part of the match, only for Chelsea to salvage a draw, making it even tougher for them to finish the season on a high note.

Chelsea fans expressed their frustration with Pochettino as vile chants resonated across at the away end of the Gtech Community Stadium. The atmosphere turned hostile as the team faced the prospect of another damaging defeat.

Asked if the connection with the Blues faithful is recoverable, Pochettino gave an honest reply, saying:

"I am not worried. We need to accept this relationship. Someone asked me ‘Do you feel the love from the fans?’ No. What are they going to expect? Between the coaching staff and the coach and the fans you build your relationship through winning games. But at the moment we have to match the expectation and if we don’t match the expectation, are we going to ask for love?"

"Normally in football, when there is frustration the coach pays or the people who are above. I don’t ask for anything. I want to continue to work and change this perception and change winning games. We have one week to prepare for Newcastle [a week on Monday] … we have to manage the reality."

Reflecting on the tensed coach-fan relationship, the Argentine manager acknowledged the lack of immediate love, but, emphasized his unwavering commitment to winning games, changing perceptions, and, ultimately, earning the trust of the Chelsea faithful.

"I think the relationship is good. If they did what they did [the critical chanting which Pochettino said he did not hear] then that is the frustration. I am fighting with all my sense to try to provide the team with the best tools to work and improve and play in this way. And win games."

"Today is my 52nd birthday. I know this business very well, but I am never going to give up. I am going to fight, and I am ready to fight tomorrow and the next game."

Chelsea are currently 11th in the league standings with 36 points in 26 matches.

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