“I was a bit disoriented” – Saul Niguez opens up on tough start to Chelsea
2 min readSaul Niguez has opened up about his struggles at Chelsea since arriving at Stamford Bridge last summer.
The Spaniard was brought in on a season-long loan from Atletico Madrid but has yet to make an impact.
He’s battled to break into Thomas Tuchel’s starting lineup, and he’s generally looked lost anytime he’s been on the pitch.
So far, the 27-year-old has only made six Premier League games, three of which he has started. On every occasion, he was taken off at halftime.
The situation has deteriorated to the point where fans have demanded that he be dropped from the squad or that his contract be terminated entirely.
Niguez discussed his troubles with the Blues in a recent interview. He attributes this to a lack of early-season training with the first squad, but he also praises Chelsea’s coaching staff.
“In my 1st match, I was a bit disorientated because I was used to doing things differently, and it was a bit strange for me. I hadn’t had much time to train with my teammates, and when I first started, many of them were away with their national teams. He said.
“So it was a difficult start, but I want to say thank you to the Chelsea staff, who have always transmitted a sense of calm during this period of adaptation. I really want to show the player I am, and repay their confidence in me.”
Despite his early problems, Saul Niguez has recently shown indications of recovering his mojo.
Last month, he showed signs of improvement, particularly in the Blues’ Carabao Cup victory over Tottenham Hotspur.
Up Chelsea’s 2-0 win over Spurs at home, he put in his greatest performance in blue. Tuchel said it was a ‘huge step forward’ for the Atletico Madrid star, who went around with purpose and looked confident.
Niguez said he is prepared to step in whenever the coach wants him to, saying:
“Personally, I would like to have played more but I also understand that this team won the #UCL last season so it is difficult to get into the team. I feel good, and every day, I’m feeling better and prepared for when the head coach needs me.”
The midfielder added that the transition has been difficult after moving from Madrid to London.
“Everything’s changed – the stadium, teammates, my whole life. The truth is it hasn’t been easy but I’m very grateful to my teammates and the club for making it easier for me to adapt. My English is improving, and everything’s becoming a bit easier.”
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