Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
TUCHEL LIKES MADE IN CHELSEA
New Blues gaffer Thomas has no plans to ditch Stamford Bridge kids
THOMAS TUCHEL is determined to build on Chelsea’s new foundations to bring a fresh era of success to Stamford Bridge.
It is understood that one of the key reasons why the Blues chose Tuchel was his record of working with young players, and that fits with the new generation of stars coming through at the club.
Tuchel, 47, established his career while working as a youth coach in Germany, at the likes of Stuttgart and Augsburg, before earning his chance at Mainz.
But the German gained a reputation at Mainz and Borussia Dortmund for embracing young players and working closely with the academy. That appealed to the Blues’ hierarchy as they looked for Frank Lampard’s successor.
Chelsea also wanted a German, or German speaker, to try and build on the growing German influence in the dressing room. Christian Pulisic (with Tuchel yesterday, right) worked with the manager at Dortmund, while Brazil defender Thiago Silva knows him from Paris Saintgermain. But any fears that Chelsea’s blossoming generation of youngsters – such as Mason Mount, Reece James and Billy Gilmour – would suddenly be discarded could not be further from the picture Tuchel has painted.
The new boss spoke to players at a meeting at the club’s Cobham training ground and offered assurances they will all be given a clean slate and a proper chance.
Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has enjoyed watching the development of young players under Lampard and did not want to throw that work away.
But the Blues will now expect Tuchel to quickly improve results. They have back-to-back home games with Wolves and Burnley, and the hope is they can move up the table fast. Tuchel, who speaks perfect English, is known for high-energy, pressing, entertaining and attacking football.
Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia said: “It is never easy to change head coach in the middle of the season, but we are very happy to secure one of Europe’s best coaches.
“There is still much to play for and achieve this season and beyond. We welcome Thomas to the club.”
Tuchel is also known for his abrasive character, for having rows with those in charge, and can be a difficult personality. But Chelsea are prepared to take the gamble and see him as a good fit who was available after being sacked by PSG last month.
Having led the French giants to six domestic trophies and last season’s Champions League final, Tuchel will want to take the next step with success at Chelsea to establish himself among Europe’s very best.
He has often used a back four, an attacking formation, and the Blues will hope he can get the best out of Timo Werner (circle) and Kai Havertz, as the Germany stars have been underwhelming so far.
Experienced Germany defender Antonio Rudiger fell out of favour under Lampard, but will surely be given a fresh chance to prove his worth.