Noni Madueke is looking forward to working under Mauricio Pochettino at Chelsea despite leaving Tottenham under him due to a lack of playing opportunities.
The Argentine has been confirmed as the London club’s new manager on Monday, and he signed a two-year contract with the option of a one-year extension.
Pochettino will be tasked with trimming a bloated squad, with the new owners having spent around £600m on new signings in the past 12 months.
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One of those is Madueke, who arrived in a £28.5million deal from PSV in the January transfer window.
The 21-year-old worked under Pochettino at Tottenham, where he spent four years in the club’s academy, but left due to the absence of a pathway into the first team and lack of chances.
Madueke does not feel that is an issue now, however, with the player excited by the prospect of working under Pochettino.
Asked about the Argentine manager’s arrival at Stamford Bridge, Madueke said on Sunday: ‘I think he is a good manager.
‘He has been in big places around the world and he was a great success in the Premier League. I am looking forward to working with and learning from him.’
Reflecting on what Chelsea need to do to turn around a disappointing season in which they only finished 12th, Madueke said: ‘Just cohesion and pulling in the right direction.
‘I think next season we need to go back to basics.
‘The new manager needs to come in and everyone needs to get behind him in training for him and Chelsea to be successful and there’s no reason why we can’t be with the talent in his squad.’
Speaking about his own first half-season at Stamford Bridge, Madueke posted on social media: ‘Thank you Chelsea for making me feel at home from the very first minute.
‘Next season will be different. I’m certain. Success is non-negotiable and is what you guys deserve. Take care and see you guys at the Bridge soon.’
