Players question manager’s choice ahead of Sheffield United clash
Mauricio Pochettino’s decision to pass on Thiago Silva for captaincy has left the team confused and dissatisfied. With Reece James and Ben Chilwell injured, the experienced Brazilian Thiago Silva seemed to be the natural choice to lead the team on the field.
Meanwhile, Pochettino chose Conor Gallagher to wear the armband against Sheffield United, rejecting Silva yet again.
The dissatisfaction in the Chelsea locker room is obvious, with players questioning Pochettino’s choice. Despite his level of experience and seniority in the squad, Silva has been refused the captaincy in the absence of James and Chilwell.
Following Cesar Azpilicueta’s retirement, the 39-year-old defender with an outstanding 897 professional appearances was expected to take over as captain.
Speaking back in August after James was appointed ahead of Silva, Pochettino said: “This is a decision taken by me and the club. We are very pleased Reece will captain the side this season. He leads by example and his attitude and dedication to Chelsea has been clear throughout pre-season.
He proudly wore the armband during our summer tour and will take up the challenge of leading our squad with his own approach and ideas.”
This surprise turn has caused discussion about the club’s tactics, with some players believing that the manager has disrespected Silva.
Even when Gallagher, James, and Chilwell were not present, Pochettino chose to give the armband to 20-year-old Levi Colwill, ignoring Silva, who stood by them in center defense.
Chelsea is dealing with a streak of poor performances, now lying 12th in the Premier League table and having lost three of their previous four games, and the unhappiness within the group adds another layer of challenges to the team’s current issues.
The decision not to name Silva captain has become an issue of contention, reflecting the fluctuation among the Chelsea ranks as they negotiate a difficult season.
See More:
- Man United face two injury blows ahead of Liverpool encounter
- Liverpool are interested in signing Bayer Leverkusen defender Jonathan Tah
