Talking Tactics: How Poch can Bridge gap to rivals

Mauricio Pochettino has a host of problems to solve at Chelsea. 

The Blues endured a chastening campaign last season, slumping to a 12th-place Premier League finish — their lowest since 1994. 

Trimming a bloated squad, adding quality in the right positions and rebuilding the shattered confidence of those who remain will be among the Argentine's top priorities. 

We take a look at how Pochettino can address the issues he is facing at Stamford Bridge.

Top manager

Pochettino may have a multitude of problems to solve — but earning the respect of the dressing room does not appear to be one of them.

Midfielder Conor Gallagher has expressed his excitement at the prospect of working with the ex-Tottenham coach.

He said: "[Pochettino is] a top manager, everyone at Chelsea is happy he's here and we're looking forward to working with him." 

Chelsea's clangers

Chelsea built a reputation as a solid defensive unit under Thomas Tuchel — but that image was shattered last season. 

They conceded 47 times in the Premier League and were lucky it was not more, with only six of their 20 errors leading to shots resulting in goals. 

Additionally, they were forced to clear shots off the line a joint-high nine times. 

The Blues cannot continue to live so dangerously and Pochettino will be keen to instil a greater sense of calmness and clarity at the back.

Chances going begging

If Chelsea's defensive numbers were concerning, their attacking statistics make for even more grim reading. 

They posted a conversion rate of just 7.85% in the Premier League last season — the second-worst in the division, only ahead of Wolves (7.52%). Title-winners Manchester City posted 15.67%. 

The Blues' lack of a clinical finisher cost them dearly, resulting in a paltry total of 38 goals. That was the joint-fifth lowest tally in the competition, behind relegated pair Leeds and Leicester. 

A prolific centre forward is likely to be at the top of Pochettino's summer transfer wish list.

Summer rebuild

In addition to bolstering his attack, Pochettino will likely need reinforcements in midfield, as well as a new goalkeeper. 

However, Chelsea's bloated squad contains over 30 first-team players and will need trimming to a much healthier figure ahead of the 2023-24 campaign. 

This problem appears to be on the way to being addressed. The futures of a number of players — including the likes of Edouard Mendy, Kalidou Koulibaly, Mateo Kovacic, Mason Mount and Hakim Ziyech — all appear to be away from Stamford Bridge. 

Pochettino will have to contend with plenty of squad upheaval as he looks to implement his tactical ideas in pre-season. If he can pull it off, he will deserve plenty of credit for rebuilding a broken Blues side.