Speaking at a press conference for the first time since assuming his role at Chelsea on July 1, Pochettino addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding Lukaku’s future.
Despite the club’s efforts to reduce their squad size through various departures during the transfer window, Lukaku’s situation remains uncertain.
The striker spent the previous season on loan at Inter Milan after his return to Chelsea in the summer of 2021.
When asked about Lukaku’s potential return for pre-season training, Pochettino stated, “The situation, all the parts know what we think. I think in that case, he needs to come back the 12th, or 13th into the squad for the start of pre-season.”
Regarding whether he had spoken to Lukaku or was simply assuming his return to the Cobham training center, Pochettino replied, “Of course. Like with all of the players, the first thing they do when they arrive is to come to my office and see me. That is what I expect if he is still a Chelsea player.”
Pochettino’s arrival at Chelsea follows a disappointing season for the club, who finished 12th in the Premier League. The 51-year-old coach previously had a tumultuous tenure at Paris Saint-Germain, where he secured a Ligue 1 title, as well as the Coupe de France and Trophee des Champions.
“My target is to win, my aim is to win,” Pochettino emphasized.
“If you are in a club like Chelsea, you can’t talk about doing a nice job and playing well. Yes, of course, I can do a good job, play well, and adhere to our style and culture, but, of course, the ultimate goal is to win. Failure to do so at a club like Chelsea will undoubtedly result in hardship.”
“We have to work hard, push the players to their limits, and channel this energy to our fans, who can greatly assist us in winning matches,” Pochettino continued.
“Creating a sense of togetherness is crucial because the competition in the Premier League is incredibly tough. Many teams aspire to the same achievements as us. When we stand united, we can approach winning again.”
Pochettino expressed confidence in Chelsea’s ability to compete with top clubs such as Manchester City and Liverpool, stating, “I think we need to believe also that we can create good things. It is going to be tough, but we need to believe we can compete with a team like Manchester City. I reiterate, we can win. We genuinely believe that, and we are all united. We can be Chelsea, compete, and strive to defeat these formidable teams.”
Chelsea’s Premier League campaign for the 2023-24 season will commence on August 13 with a home match against Liverpool.
