As the battle for European spots in the Premier League reaches a thrilling climax, we had the opportunity to catch up with Chelsea’s Jadon Sancho and Trevoh Chalobah to chat about the club’s ambitions for the closing stages of the season and more.
Currently positioned fifth in the Premier League table, Chelsea is firmly in contention for a Champions League berth. With each match proving vital, they are set to take on newly-crowned champions Liverpool at Stamford Bridge this weekend—a victory is paramount for their aspirations.
The Champions League chase is intensifying, with five teams vying for two qualifying spots. As you prepare to face Liverpool, recently crowned champions, what are your reflections on the match and the European race?
Chalobah: “It’s extremely competitive, with about five teams in the running for those Champions League spots. Our match against Liverpool is pivotal, especially considering their status as champions.
“It’s going to be a massive game and we’ll be fully prepared for it.”
How do you assess your season thus far? Would you classify it as a success?
Sancho: “The season started quite promisingly. However, I feel we’ve had our fair share of misfortune with some results, and dropping points is always disappointing. That said, I believe we’re hitting our stride now.
“We’ve enjoyed solid performances at home, and we’re really looking forward to this weekend’s fixture, hoping to secure all three points.”
Do you have specific aspirations for the end of the season?
Sancho: “Absolutely, our goal is Champions League qualification. Representing Chelsea means we’re always striving for the top competitions…”
You’ve both been under the guidance of head coach Enzo Maresca for several months. What’s he like as a coach? How does he stack up against others you’ve encountered?
Chalobah: “He’s incredibly meticulous. Always analysing the game, he provides us with insights leading up to training sessions and matches to help us better understand our opponents.
“His attention to detail really aids us in preparing for games. He consistently pushes us to learn and to be aware of the next steps.”
Shifting gears from Chelsea, both of you have played in various leagues globally. Jadon, you’ve had experience in Germany, while Trevoh spent some time in France. How would you compare those leagues to the Premier League?
Sancho: “To start with, I’d say the Premier League is definitely more physical. The intensity and urgency during matches are unmatched.
“In the Premier League, you often contend with teams employing low-block strategies, while in Germany, even the lower-tier teams have a go at you, often playing four at the back and committing to an attacking style.
“Teams there stick to their gameplans, particularly against top sides, always aiming for a win. In contrast, in the Premier League, we often encounter sides playing five at the back, which certainly complicates things.”
Chalobah: “From my perspective, France possesses a fair share of physicality too. Both leagues exhibit a transitional style; the pace is exhilarating. A single mistake can lead to a swift counter-attack.
“So, I’d say France is comparable to the Premier League in terms of physical workload.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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