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The Ecuadorian has explained how the pressures of a record transfer move affected his performances at Stamford Bridge and how he turned it around.
Chelsea midfielder Moises Caicedo has revealed the challenges he faced following his record-breaking transfer from Brighton in a deal worth up to £115 million last summer.
Caicedo explains Chelsea struggles
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The Ecuadorian international admitted to struggling with the immense pressure associated with becoming the Premier League's most expensive player circa 12 months ago, as his confidence was affected during his initial months at Stamford Bridge.
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“I felt a lot of pressure because, you know, the club, the history, the players who were there before,” said the 22-year-old midfielder. “It was really tough for me at the beginning. But after the last four or five months, I felt more comfortable at the club. A lot of people around me helped me.”
The midfielder managed to overcome the difficulties with the help of former manager Mauricio Pochettino and a mental performance coach.
“They (Pochettino and his staff) were with me when I felt like I was not the same Moises,” Caicedo continued. “I said ‘Please help me because I want to show my quality, my football.’
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“They were with me. I have a person outside of the club who helped me a lot to get the pressure out of my mind. It was my confidence. I (know) I have the quality. I know the player I am. But sometimes if you are not strong in your mind, it is difficult.”
“It’s a guy who after every game, we watch my game. He told me, ‘Moises, you are a good player, you can do whatever you want on the pitch with responsibility. Just trust in yourself. If Chelsea paid that for you, it’s because you are a very good player.’”
Looking forward, Caicedo believes he can showcase his full potential under the guidance of new manager Enzo Maresca, who has encouraged him to be a leader in the Chelsea midfield.
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“He plays like the same system that I played in Brighton,” said the midfielder. “He wants the same. He wants me to show my quality, to show good personality, to show to my teammates that I am the boss on the pitch.
“For sure, I will be a good player with him.”
What comes next?
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The midfielder's improved form towards the end of last season suggests that he is adapting well to life at Chelsea and is ready to play a key role in the club's future.
Caicedo and his Chelsea teammates conclude their Tour of the United States with a clash against European champions Real Madrid, as they seek to improve after recent defeats by Celtic (4-1) and a 4-2 loss to Manchester City.
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