Every word Reece James & Ben Chilwell said on Chelsea’s new head coach Mauricio Pochettino

Mauricio Pochettino has learned what duo Reece James and Ben Chilwell think of his Chelsea head coach appointment.

The 51-year-old’s arrival at Chelsea was confirmed last week on an initial two-year contract, with a club option of a further year, which will see Pochettino officially begin on July 1.

Co-sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart said: “Mauricio’s experience, standards of excellence, leadership qualities and character will serve Chelsea Football Club well as we move forward.

“He is a winning coach, who has worked at the highest levels, in multiple leagues and languages. His ethos, tactical approach and commitment to development all made him the exceptional candidate.”

Work has already begun to plan and prepare for next season after their dismal 12th place finish in 2022-23. Pochettino has made several decisions over who will and won’t be part of his plans and squad next term.

Two players who will be part of the squad next season are Ben Chilwell and Reece James. Both missed the end of the season through injury but are targeting to be fully fit for pre-season.

Both were in attendance for the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Barcelona, Spain, at the weekend. James and Chilwell were asked about Chelsea’s season and life ahead with Pochettino which awaits them.

Here is every word James and Chilwell said on the new head coach as they looked ahead to the 2023/24 season.

Ben Chilwell

“That’s the aim, of course,” Chilwell told Sky Sports on Chelsea getting back to the top after a dismal season. “We’re very excited. We’ve got a big pre-season. New manager. Everyone knows the players we’ve got, sot’s up to us to go out there and make the season a good one.”

“Of course, he’s a great manager,” added Chilwell on Pochettino. “Spoke to players who have worked with him. Everyone is excited.”

Reece James

“It’s been a tough year,” reflected James to Sky Sports. “We’ve had lots of injuries and we didn’t finish in the best position. Hopefully next year is better.”

“Yeah. Everyone is saying he’s a great manager. Hopefully next season we find our feet early and we’re a good, strong side.”