Soccer-Chelsea performances have dropped but young squad needs time - Pochettino

Soccer Football - Premier League - Chelsea v Brighton & Hove Albion - Stamford Bridge, London, Britain - December 3, 2023 Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino reacts after the match REUTERS/Dylan Martinez/File photo

(Reuters) - Chelsea's performance levels have dropped in recent weeks but despite the pressure the London club's young squad needs time to settle as they build for the future, manager Mauricio Pochettino said on Friday.

Chelsea were the biggest spenders in the league in the close season but their erratic form has seen them win just five times in 15 games, with a midweek loss to Manchester United dropping the London side to 10th.