Ahead of the Chelsea and Manchester City clash in the 12th round of the Premier League, manager Mauricio Pochettino believes that VAR makes it more challenging to contain players like Erling Haaland.
The showdown at Stamford Bridge today recalls the 1997 duel between Argentine manager Pochettino and Pep Guardiola as players. At that time, Pochettino’s Espanyol unexpectedly defeated Guardiola’s Barcelona 2-0 in the Catalonia derby.
Pochettino and his teammates used various tricks to thwart the opposing stars, including Ronaldo Nazario and Luis Figo in Barcelona’s lineup in that match. Espanyol compelled the referee to show a red card to Figo and six yellow cards to Barcelona, including one for Guardiola and assistant coach Jose Mourinho.
“I still remember that match, there are some video clips on the internet. I used some tricks that I might get sent off if done now. It was a fantastic night, an unforgettable victory. Nowadays, with VAR, it wouldn’t be possible to stop Ronaldo Nazario. Back then, we were quite ‘clever,’ there were no cameras, and you could employ many different tactics. I’m not saying defending was easier back then, but now, being a defender is tough,” Pochettino said.
“Now, attacking players like Haaland find it easier. They benefit from VAR. Defenders have to be careful not to commit fouls or pull their shirts. Previously, every action was like a battle. To stop Haaland, defenders have to run faster, concentrate, and try to anticipate what he intends to do. You must understand what to do in the penalty area because Haaland is tall. You need to leap ahead of him.”
In the previous round, Chelsea defeated Tottenham 4-1, marking their fourth win of the season. Pochettino is still refining the squad after being appointed in the summer, facing challenges in getting acquainted with many new players, most of whom are young talents.
Chelsea is predicted to face difficulties against Manchester City this weekend. Commenting on his counterpart Guardiola, Pochettino believes that the Manchester City manager has become formidable due to accumulated experience. However, he is confident in developing new tactics to overcome his counterpart.
