Thomas Tuchel has refuted rumours that he could leave Chelsea this summer amid uncertainty over his future.
The German’s long-term commitment to the Blues has been questioned over the past few months, with some suggesting that he could be set to wave goodbye due to the ongoing takeover process at Stamford Bridge.
Defender Antonio Rudiger has already made the decision to depart this summer with the expiry of his contract, whilst he could also be followed by fellow centre-back Andreas Christensen. Meanwhile, the likes of Cesar Azpilicueta, Jorginho and Timo Werner have all been linked with exits in recent times.
Despite that, Tuchel has suggested that he has already started planning for next season and has reaffirmed his dedication to Chelsea. Speaking in his pre-match press conference ahead of the mid-week showdown with Manchester United, the German said: “From pre-season next season, we will give our very best, and I will be fully involved with all my heart and all of my knowledge.”
Tuchel has of course been at the reins for over a year having replaced club icon Frank Lampard last January. The former Paris Saint-Germain and Borussia Dortmund head coach enjoyed an almost instant impact in west London.
He led the Blues to their second Champions League crown, whilst also securing the UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup titles. Tuchel has also led Chelsea to two consecutive FA Cup finals, and will of course be aiming to lift the trophy at Wembley Stadium next month having fallen to Leicester City last term.
First though, the Blues have the challenge of Manchester United to negotiate. Chelsea could potentially all-but rubber-stamp their place in the Champions League next season with a victory at Old Trafford – whilst ending the Red Devils’ own hope of finishing in the top four.
Tuchel has insisted that his side have their eyes firmly focused on victory. He said: “Always a good time for the win. No matter if you won the last match or last two against the same opponent.
“A win is always the next match. It just shows it is not easy. These kind of streaks exist in football.
“Against some opponents, it is harder to get victories. Obviously, Manchester United is this kind of opponent for us.
“With all the respect we have for the history, occasion and quality of Man U, we try to win, and we will arrive to win. We prepare to win this match and see what questions are asked and what the game demands, and how the momentum shifts or not.”
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