Moises Caicedo refused to entertain questions about Xabi Alonso’s appointment as Chelsea’s new manager following Ecuador’s disappointing 0-0 draw against Curacao.
After a narrow defeat against Ivory Coast in their Group E opener, the South American dark horses were expected to bounce back against the World Cup debutants who were hammered 7-1 by Germany last week.
Instead, Ecuador were frustrated by the tiny Island nation and goalkeeper Eloy Room who made a record-equalling 15 saves in the match.
Ecuador will now require a positive result against Germany in their next match to progress to the knockout round and while it is a testing time for his country, it is an even more tumultuous period for Chelsea.
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The Blues are about to embark on another new era following Alonso’s appointment as Liam Rosenior’s permanent successor.
With Marc Cucurella having already sealed his move to Real Madrid and Caicedo’s regular midfield partner, Enzo Fernandez, angling for a move to the Spanish capital there is much to sort for Alonso once he officially begins work.
Asked for his verdict on the decision to hire the former Liverpool midfielder, Caicedo turned down the opportunity to endorse BlueCo’s latest appointment, insisting his focus is fully on the World Cup.
He said: No, to be honset I’m just focussed on my national team because the most important thing is now here, in the present.
‘Now we are going to keep working hard because we have an important game next.’
He added: ‘It hurts, believe me. When we win, I’m happy because the people are happy.
‘They pay for a ticket, and we want to see them smile, celebrate goals and enjoy the game. In the end, I’m hurting more than anyone.
‘I just ask that they keep believing in us, because the only way we achieve something special is by staying together.
‘Criticism won’t help.’