While I agree with the sentiment, I do not like that his comments reinforce the false idea that Catholics worship the Pope. Even though Catholics may chant Francis (although the chant is more likely “Viva la Papa”) it doesn’t mean those people worship the Pope as Lord.
No one can say what is in the hearts of the chanters. I suspect that Pope Francis feels the ball is a little too close to the wrong endzone, and has decided to change plays to advance it towards the right goal line.