Premier League: Chelsea fired Frank Lampard. German manager, Thomas Tuchel has taken over, as officially announced by the club.
Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia has revealed her delight after the Blues announced the appointment of Thomas Tuchel, labeling him one of Europe’s best coaches.
“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 in Thomas Tuchel,” she told the club’s official website.
“There is still much to play for and much to achieve, this season and beyond. We welcome Thomas to the club.”
Tuchel also spent seven seasons in the Bundesliga, first with Mainz and then with Borussia Dortmund where he replaced Jurgen Klopp who had departed for Liverpool.
Tuchel said of his appointment at Chelsea: “I would like to thank Chelsea FC for their confidence in me and my staff.”
“At the same time, I cannot wait to meet my new team and compete in the most exciting league in football. I am grateful to now be part of the Chelsea family – it feels amazing.”
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Lampard, who is considered one of Chelsea’s greatest ever players after winning 13 trophies in a 13-year stint in west London, took charge in 2019 following a year in the Championship with Derby County.
He steered the west London club to a top four finish in his maiden season in the top-flight, but the mood has soured at Stamford Bridge this term with the Blues lagging behind their rivals despite a summer spend exceeding the £200 million mark.
The 42-year-old has come under increasing pressure over the last few weeks with Chelsea currently sitting ninth in the top-flight, 11 points behind league leaders Manchester United
It is understood Tuchel is set to be appointed Lampard’s successor.
Former Borussia Dortmund manager Tuchel is currently out of work having been sacked by Paris Saint-Germain just before Christmas.
Frank Lampard’s relationship with Marina Granovskaia had deteriorated, leaving him on the brink. Players would complain of lack of tactical instructions and not being spoken to for months.
It is understood Petr Cech was involved in the decision to let Lampard go and hire Tuchel.
Thomas Tuchel is expected to arrive at Chelsea on a 2.5 year contract.
