Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino has emphasized the need for referees to remain impartial amid the emotional backdrop of Jurgen Klopp’s farewell tour as Liverpool manager.
As the two teams prepare to face off at Wembley for the Carabao Cup final, Pochettino acknowledged Liverpool’s convincing 4-1 victory in their recent Premier League encounter. While admitting his team deserved nothing from that match, Pochettino questioned certain referee decisions during the game and urged officials to ensure a “fair” competition against Klopp’s team for the remainder of the season.
“I think we need to be sure we are going to compete and be fair in every single decision,” stated the Chelsea boss. Reflecting on their previous game at Anfield, Pochettino expressed dissatisfaction with refereeing decisions, emphasizing the importance of impartiality.
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Acknowledging Liverpool’s excellence and Klopp’s coaching prowess, Pochettino highlighted his desire to approach the Wembley clash without feeling undue pressure and to compete on an even playing field.
“We are Chelsea and we need to compete with the same tools. If they are better, well done, and we congratulate them, but be fair in every single decision,” Pochettino emphasized. He clarified that the pressure should not revolve around Klopp’s farewell but rather on delivering a commendable performance for Chelsea.
While denying the notion that spoiling Klopp’s farewell was an added incentive for Chelsea, Pochettino stressed the primary focus on winning for the club and not being influenced by external factors such as the celebration surrounding Klopp’s departure.
“We want to win because of Chelsea,” he emphasized, adding, “But please, not another party involved in the game will be part of the celebration that Klopp is leaving, no? That is important.”