MY ACCOUNT
Thomas Tuchel sees no reason to leave Chelsea for Manchester United — despite the continued uncertainty at Stamford Bridge.
Sanctions imposed on billionaire Roman Abramovich in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine have impacted the club’s day-to-day operations.
As they wait on a sale, the Blues cannot engage in contract negotiations or sell tickets or merchandise, while their spending in key areas such as travel is capped.
Meanwhile, United – one of the richest clubs in world football – are looking for a new manager for next season, prompting talk Tuchel could be targeted.
But the Chelsea coach, who confirmed his side would be able to fly to Middlesbrough for Saturday’s FA Cup quarter-final, dismissed the suggestion.
Asked for his reaction to the reports, Tuchel said: “There’s no reaction at all.
“Do you feel me [being] less committed to the club? Less involved in the club in my situation? I think absolutely not.
“I have said many times that I love to be here and I love to work for Chelsea, and this club has everything that it needs to make me happy. That’s why there is no need.
“We have plenty of reasons to stay in the moment here, and that is what we’re doing.”
A move to Old Trafford would ensure Tuchel’s ability to spend in the coming transfer window, which remains uncertain as long as he stays at Chelsea.
But the Champions League-winning coach is confident the London club will be able to stay competitive.
“Maybe players will decide something they would not have decided if the situation had been different. Okay, maybe,” he said.
“But there are so many ‘ifs’ in this; if it comes to this, we will find a solution.
“I still believe Chelsea will stay strong, Chelsea will hopefully stay football first, will hopefully stay a team-first club. I have trust and I believe in our ability to adapt.
“We will find solutions once the situation has cleared, once we are hopefully able to act again.”
Although Tuchel was previewing the Boro game – for which Reece James is a doubt, putting his England availability into question with Trent Alexander-Arnold already out – he was speaking moments after Chelsea were drawn against Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals.
A clash with Atletico Madrid’s tie with Manchester City could prevent Chelsea playing away at the Santiago Bernabeu in the second leg, as was initially indicated, but no change had been made as Tuchel reflected on the draw.
“It’s a tough one,” he said. “The challenge cannot be much higher than playing the second leg in the Bernabeu with spectators.
“It’s a big challenge, but there is also big excitement around this match, around this fixture. We know what’s coming. It will be an exciting match and a tough challenge.”
