The German tactician Thomas Tuchel, has left Stamford Bridge just seven matches into the season, following a 1-0 defeat by Dinamo Zagreb in the Champions League on Tuesday night, Abbeylivenetwork.com reports.
Tuchel was appointed by Chelsea in January 2021 and had an immediate impact, winning the Champions League in his first season at the club.
In 2021-22, Chelsea reached both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup final as they secured a third place finish in the Premier League.
Tuchel spearheaded Chelsea at a time of uncertainty for the club as Roman Abramovich departed as owner last season.
Chelsea were one of the biggest spenders in the summer transfer window, signing Wesley Fofana, Aubameyang and Raheem Sterling.
However, it was understood that Tuchel was informed on Wednesday morning and Anthony Barry is likely to take temporary charge until a replacement is found – with Graham Potter set to be the early frontrunner.
While the loss in Zagreb may have underlined Chelsea’s recent slump under Tuchel, Telegraph Sport understands that his sacking is not based purely on results or Chelsea’s poor start to the season.
Regardless of Tuesday night’s defeat, concerns had been growing that Tuchel was not the right man to lead the new era under co-controlling owners Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, and it is believed the German’s future was in doubt win, lose or draw in Zagreb.
Boehly and Behdad Eghbali will move quickly to replace Tuchel and immediately start talking to targets following his removal. An approach to Brighton is likely to be made to speak to Potter, with Chelsea aiming for a swift process of due diligence to appoint the right man.
As well as approaching Potter, Chelsea may try to hold discussions with out-of-work duo Mauricio Pochettino and Zinedine Zidane. Benfica manager Roger Schmidt could also come under consideration.
Chelsea are sixth in the Premier League and play Fulham on Saturday.
Chelsea Football Club part company with Thomas Tuchel.
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) September 7, 2022
