Kai Havertz goes off for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to enter the pitch for Chelsea against Brentford in October 2022. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)
Speaking to the media after the game (h/t Football.London), Chelsea boss Graham Potter explained the reason why striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was not brought in earlier against Brentford.
The Gabonese star was rested from the game and was subbed on in the 81st minute for Kai Havertz. There was not enough time for the 33-year-old to score the winning goal. The game ended in a goalless draw with keepers from both sides making key saves.
Aubameyang has been in good form lately, with three goals in his last four appearances before tonight. But, having played Aston Villa 72 hours ago and an important game against Manchester United coming up in less than 72 hours’ time, rotation was necessary.
Here’s exactly what Potter said regarding this (h/t Football.London):
“I know the reasons why because it’s the load of him and we have to manage that and it gives Kai the chance to score. I understand the question.”
As much as Chelsea fans would want the former Arsenal marksman to start every game as he is an exciting player, games are coming thick and fast in this period before the World Cup. So, Potter is right about managing the load of his main man. Moreover, he is 33 now, hence his muscles need rest from time to time.
And there is no point wondering about the ‘ifs’ and the ‘buts’ when it comes to things like this. Potter had a very good team out there on the field against the Bees and it’s not like Havertz isn’t a good player.
Despite the two dropped points against Brentford, the Blues remain fourth in the table with 20 points, seven behind leaders Arsenal and one ahead of their weekend’s opponents Manchester United.
All attention now turns to Stamford Bridge for a potential six-pointer game in pursuit of a spot in the top four. Though it is early in the season, a win for Chelsea would expand the gap between them and United to four points. It would be huge psychologically.
Along with Aubameyang, Thiago Silva and Ben Chilwell were rested from this game keeping the weekend in mind. Potter would hope that Conor Gallagher, who went off early tonight, is not seriously ill and is available for the next game.
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