Speaking to the media after Chelsea’s narrow 1-0 loss against Manchester City in the first semifinal of the 2023/24 Emirates FA Cup, Mauricio Pochettino expressed that ‘it was difficult to see’ if his side should have been awarded a penalty – but stressed that he ‘does not blame the referee.’
‘I think maybe you [journalists] had a better view,’ said the Argentine.
‘From the touchline it was difficult to see. I don’t blame the referee because he did a check, and I only said to him why not check the penalty on the TV?’
‘From what I saw after, [nods], but you know.’
Embed from Getty ImagesAnother defeat at Wembley is undoubtedly a crushing blow for the Blues, who had enjoyed an impressive unbeaten run in the buildup to Saturday’s clash. Pochettino suggested that ‘this group of players need this type of moment, these games and now it’s about taking the positive things.’
‘Now is a time to finish the season in the best way and of course we see about how we can be better next season.’