“He’s in a negative circle”- Former mentor backs underutilized summer signing to turn the tide at Chelsea

Christoph Spycher backs Denis Zakaria to turn around his fortunes at Chelsea

According to 4-4-2.CH (h/t Football.London), Chelsea loanee Denis Zakaria has been back to make an impact at the club by his former mentor Christoph Spycher.

The Swiss international arrived at Stamford Bridge on a season-long loan from Italian giants Juventus. Initially expected to play a big role, Zakaria is yet to take to the field thanks to a myriad of factors outside his control.

Thomas Tuche was replaced by Graham Potter and several fringe players like Ruben Loftus-Cheek have impressed under the latter. This, if anything, makes Zakaria’s task harder, providing him with even more obstacles to overcome to secure gametime.

Spycher, who oversaw Zakaria’s development while at BSC Young Boys is confident that his former ward can turn things around. He goes on to add that the 25-year-old has had the misfortune of being injured at the worst times and has backed him

“Denis is certainly unlucky.”

Spycher goes on to add that Zakaria thrives on confidence and can do with a good run of games to boost his morale. He does not appear to have any doubt that the Swiss star will if given the chance, succeed at Stamford Bridge.

“Denis can assert himself, but he needs confidence and top form. He’s in a negative circle at the moment because he’s not getting any playing time. He needs two or three games in which he can show himself. And then, of course, he has to perform.”

While Spycher appears confident, one can claim that he is just doing so because of his past association with the player. Zakaria is certainly a player with much potential but is a signing made by the previous management team.

Potter has the credentials to get the best out of players but it remains to be seen if Zakaria is someone who fits his gameplan. The Englishman has taken Chelsea to five wins in his first six games in charge and despite not playing the 25-year-old hasn’t missed him.

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Much was expected when Chelsea signed Zakaria last summer. To say that it has been underwhelming so far would be an understatement. We hope Spycher proved to be a prophet and the player goes on to make a name for himself at Stamford Bridge.