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    Sacked Chelsea bosses and what they did next, from Jose Mourinho managing rivals Spurs to Gus Hiddink in Curacao

    FRANK LAMPARD is the 12th boss Roman Abramovich has disposed of when results haven’t gone the way the Chelsea owner has wanted.
    But the former Blues legend will take heart in seeing how some of his predecessors in the Stamford Bridge hot seat have fared after the Russian owner gave them their marching orders.

    Frank Lampard is the most recent management casualty at Stamford BridgeCredit: PA:Press Association

    Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has sacked 12 bosses since buying the club in 2003Credit: Getty Images – Getty

    Some went on to manage fierce rivals, while others have disappeared into obscurity.
    And one lucky boss is lapping up life in the Caribbean paradise of Curacao.
    Claudio Ranieri, 2000-04
    The Italian boss was already in charge when Abramovich bought the club in 2003.
    Ranieri survived just one season, helping the club secure their highest ever Premier League finish at that time as runners-up.

    Famously, he would go on to miraculously lead Leicester City to the title in 2016.
    In recent seasons Ranieri’s returned to Italy, where he’s managed Roma and is currently head coach at Sampdoria.

    Claudio Ranieri was fired one season after Abramovich’s arrivalCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd

    Ranieri led Leicester City to an unimaginable title in 2016Credit: Getty Images – Getty
    Jose Mourinho, 2004-07 and 2013-15
    The Special One is one of two managers who have been invited back to Stamford Bridge.
    In his first stint, he won consecutive league titles (the double in his second season) before things turned sour in his third and he walked away from his contract after falling out with Abramovich.

    Jose won La Liga with Real Madrid, Serie A and the Champions League with Inter, before returning to West London and winning the Premier League in his second season.
    Again, it all went wrong in his third season and he was sacked after the club lost nine of their opening 16 games.
    After that, Mourinho went to fierce rivals Man Utd – winning the Carabao Cup and Europa League.
    Now at Spurs, the Portuguese coach is trying to work his magic to bring silverware to Tottenham.

    Jose Mourinho won consecutive titles with ChelseaCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd

    Mourinho now manages fierce rivals Tottenham after two stints with the BluesCredit: Rex Features
    Avram Grant, 2007-08
    The Israeli football manager – a close friend of Abramovich – was brought in to replace Mourinho to reportedly get the best out of Andriy Shevchenko, who Jose dropped.
    However, Grant struggled to win over the fans, despite leading the club to a Champions League final in 2008 – eventually losing to Manchester United on penalties.
    A good spell at Portsmouth was followed by an ill-fated one at West Ham.
    Grant’s last job in football was in 2018, managing NorthEast United of the Indian Super League.

    Avram Grant was brought in to replace Mourinho in 2007Credit: EPA

    Avram Grant’s last job in football was in 2018 managing in IndiaCredit: Rex Features
    Luis Felipe Scolari, 2008-09
    ‘Big Phil’ came to England with a glowing reputation as one of the game’s grandmasters of football management.
    But he was fired by Chelsea after just seven months – with the club failing to sustain a title challenge and trailing Manchester United.
    Scolari seemed to lose his mojo, failing at Uzbekistani champions FC Bunyodkor – with the language barrier being his biggest obstacle.
    However, he led Palmeiras to the Copa do Brazil in 2012, but poor form in the Brazilian championship saw him sacked there.
    Most notably, as boss of Brazil at the 2014 World Cup Scolari oversaw their embarrassing 7-1 defeat to Germany.
    Scolari has also managed in China, and is now back in Brazil as boss of Cruzeiro after a second spell at Palmeiras.

    A language barrier meant Luis Felipe Scolari failed at ChelseaCredit: PA:Press Association

    ‘Big Phil’ Scolari is back in Brazil after losing his mojo at ChelseaCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    Guus Hiddink, 2009 and 2015-16
    The second man to enjoy two spells at the Bridge, the Dutchman was brought in in 2009 as interim boss to restore some pride for the remainder of the season.
    He led the club to a Champions League semi-final, where they were unfortunate to lose to Barcelona. In his last game in charge in 2009, he won the FA Cup.
    Hiddink returned to the rescue in 2015 after Mourinho’s second spell left the club in tatters – guiding Chelsea to a mid-table finish after an unbeaten first 12 games before departing once the season was over.
    As of August 2020, he is now boss of Caribbean minnows Curacao.

    Guus Hiddink has had two spells at Chelsea as interim bossCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd

    Hiddink was named as Curacao boss in 2020Credit: Getty Images – Getty
    Carlo Ancelotti, 2009-11
    After earning a glowing reputation at AC Milan, Ancelotti was hired by Abramovich to bring the title back to Stamford Bridge.
    And the Italian succeeded in his first season, adding the FA Cup in a remarkable first year.
    But a trophyless second season saw ruthless Roman wield the axe and Ancelotti was reportedly told he was getting sacked in the corridor at Goodison Park after a defeat to Everton.
    Ancelotti then scored glam jobs at PSG, where he won the title, Real Madrid, who he won the Champions League with, and Bayern Munich – who were German champions during his tenure.
    He is, of course, current boss at Everton – who sit just three points below a Champions League place.

    Carlo Ancelotti has some unfinished business in the Premier League and now manages EvertonCredit: Reuters
    Andres Villas-Boas, 2011-12
    AVB was touted as the ‘next Mourinho’ after earning his stripes at Porto, like his predecessor.
    But nine months into the job, the young boss was handed his P45 following a disappointing defeat to Watford and the belief that he struggled to assert control over his squad.
    Villas-Boas took over the reigns at Spurs briefly, before he was fired there.
    He regained credibility on the management stage with Zenit Saint-Petersburg – winning the Russian Premier League and the Russian Cup in consecutive seasons.
    In 2016, AVB took over Shanghai SIPG for a season and turned them into title contenders.
    Today, he is boss of Marseille – who flopped in this season’s Champions League, but sit in the top sixth of the French league.

    Andre Villas-Boas struggled to assert control of the Chelsea squad Credit: EPA

    Andre Villas-Boas is enjoying a successful stint at MarseilleCredit: Reuters
    Roberto Di Matteo, 2012
    When Villas-Boas was fired, his assistant Di Matteo stepped up for the top job.
    And he had a remarkable first few months as interim boss, inexplicably winning the FA Cup and Champions League.
    He was handed a two-year deal, but let go the following season after a string of poor results.
    Aside from finishing runners-up with West Brom in 2010, and earning the club promotion, his career as manager hasn’t hit the heights it did with the Blues.
    Di Matteo’s last manager role came in 2016 at Aston Villa, and lasted just four months after he was sacked for a string of poor results.

    Months after he was appointed boss, Roberto Di Matteo led Chelsea to an unlikely Champions League winCredit: Getty – Contributor
    Rafa Benitez, 2012-13
    Another year, another interim boss – this time it was former Liverpool man Rafa Benitez handed the reigns.
    His task for the remainder of the season was to steady the ship that was wavering in choppy waters under Di Matteo.
    And he won the Europa League, as well as helped the club to a top four finish before waving goodbye.
    Last week, Benitez walked away from his job at Chinese Super League side Dalian Professional.
    He has since been linked with a move back to the Premier League with Newcastle United.

    Rafa Benitez was an unpopular figure with Chelsea fans but they won the Europa League under him in 2013Credit: Corbis – Getty
    Antonio Conte, 2016-18
    Like Ancelotti, Conte started off life in West London in blistering fashion – landing the Premier League title in his first season.
    In his second, Chelsea won the FA Cup, but it all began to fall apart when Chelsea missed out on Champions League qualification.
    He was fired, and would later reportedly cost the club £30million in legal fees and compensation.
    Since 2019, Conte has been trying to unseat Juventus with Inter Milan by bringing the Serie A trophy back to the club.
    They are currently just two points off their fierce rivals AC Milan, who lead the league.

    Antonio Conte is building an Inter Milan team now to win Serie ACredit: Getty Images – Getty
    Maurizio Sarri, 2018-19
    Chelsea fans certainly weren’t Sarri to see the chain-smoking Italian lose his job in 2019.
    Despite winning the Europa League and finishing third in his first season in charge, he struggled to win over the fans – with his brand of ‘Sarriball’ failing to entertain the Stamford Bridge faithful.

    He left the club after 337 days, and landed the Juventus job in 2019.
    Sarri won his first major trophy in Italian football by leading the Old Lady to the Italian championship.
    But the day after they were knocked out of the Champions League last 16 by Lyon in 2020, he was sacked… again.

    Maurizio Sarri is looking for work after he was sacked by Juventus last yearCredit: PA:Press Association

    Frank Lampard told to ‘get used to it’ by Everton boss Ancelotti More

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    Chelsea’s next boss Thomas Tuchel’s many rows, like making a player crawl across a pitch on all fours as a punishment

    AS his past has proven, Thomas Tuchel isn’t the easiest person to get along with.
    The intense and highly-demanding football manager, who will now look to impress Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, has fallen out with board members at ALL clubs he’s managed, which has led to some acrimonious splits.

    Thomas Tuchel has earned a reputation as an intense and highly-demanding managerCredit: Alamy Live News

    He resigned at Mainz following a dispute with hierarchy over transfer funds, was sacked by Borussia Dortmund after testing the patience of bosses at the Westfalenstadion.
    At PSG he clashed with sporting director Leonardo – with the Brazilian claiming the German tactician disrespected the club.
    And Tuchel’s arguments aren’t just reserved for senior figures, with some players falling foul of the strict disciplinarian’s ways.
    After one of his stars dared upset him, Tuchel, 47, made him crawl on his hands and knees across a football pitch as a punishment.

    ‘BETRAYED’
    Although Tuchel is the most successful manager Mainz have ever had, earning the club european qualification for the first time in history, his name isn’t as revered as it should be.
    When he left the club, a bitter taste was left in the mouth of the supporters, but more importantly his president Harald Strutz said he felt “betrayed”.
    After five seasons at the club, Tuchel reportedly wanted financial backing by the board to take the team further.
    When he didn’t get what he demanded, he decided to walk away from his contract in 2014.

    “I couldn’t see how we could reinvent ourselves once more the coming summer,” he said as he departed.

    Tuchel was Mainz most successful manager ever and enjoyed five seasons with the clubCredit: Getty Images – Getty

    However, a fallout with club president Harald Strutz over transfer funds saw Tuchel walk out of the clubCredit: Getty Images – Getty

    Strutz later accused Tuchel of talking to other clubs behind his backCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    Tuchel was suspended for the remaining year of his deal – and was forced to take a Pep Guardiola-like sabbatical to assess his options.
    Later, club president Strutz would accuse Tuchel of talking to other teams behind his back – with the ambitious coach desperate to prove himself at a big club.
    PLAYER FALLOUT
    In 2015, Tuchel – who had earned his stripes from rookie coach to master tactician – got his dream job. He was hired by Borussia Dortmund to dethrone Bayern Munich from the top of the Bundesliga.
    And although he won the German Cup, his time there is best-remembered for the bust-ups he had.
    There were disagreements with senior players, including Mats Hummels, Neven Subotic, Jakub Blaszczykowski and Roman Weidenfeller.
    With Hummels he criticised his performance after a game. “Mats can do better,” Tuchel explained on why he substituted him in the 78th minute of their DFB Pokal final in May 2016 against Bayern.
    Another astonishing player row happened with forward, Emre Mor.

    Player fallouts at Borussia Dortmund included Tuchel clashing with German legend Mats HummelsCredit: Getty Images – Getty

    Turkish forward Emre Mor was made to crawl on his hands and knees as a punishment in trainingCredit: AP:Associated Press
    As a punishment, Tuchel instructed his fitness coach to make the Turkish forward crawl across the pitch on his hands and knees as a punishment for not working hard enough.
    When the youngster complained, Tuchel barked: “Shut your mouth! Shut your mouth! Shut your mouth!”
    New signings were also ordered to do an ‘initiation dance’ after joining the club in front of their team mates.
    This was stopped after some complained how uncomfortable this made them feel.
    THE BEGINNING OF THE END
    Picking a fight with your bosses and staff in the pressure cooker world of football never works.
    The first sign Tuchel was entering choppy waters came when he clashed with former chief scout Sven Mislantat, who would later work for Arsenal.
    According to German magazine Spiegel, the disagreement began after Mislantat negotiated a deal for Spanish starlet Oliver Torres, but Tuchel opposed the move and the player stayed at Atletico Madrid.

    Tuchel disagreed with player acquisitions at Borussia DortmundCredit: EPA

    Former chief scout Sven Mislantat clashed with Tuchel over the signing of Oliver TorresCredit: Getty Images – Getty

    CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke publicly disagreed about the rescheduling of Dortmund’s Champions League game against MonacoCredit: EPA
    Dortmund chief executive Hans-Joachim Watzke and sporting director Michael Zorc reportedly sided with Mislantat.
    The signing of Swedish talent Alexander Isak was also a mystery to Tuchel, as he revealed in an awkward press conference after a deal was done – saying he knew nothing about it.
    However, a decisive moment in the breakdown between Tuchel and Watzke came over the rescheduling of the Champions League clash with Monaco following a bombing of the team bus.
    The Champions League tie was played just 24-hours after the incident – with Watzke consulting the players, who had agreed they wanted the game to go ahead.
    But Tuchel moaned publicly and said the decision for the match to be played was made for them, and wasn’t his decision. Watzke later revealed that Tuchel had an opportunity to say he didn’t want the clash to happen but kept quiet.
    Just days after he won the German cup for the club, Tuchel was sacked with Watzke saying he was “worn out” dealing with the manager.
    DISRESPECTUL
    Undeterred by his now spiky reputation, PSG hired Tuchel to replace Unai Emery at the Parc des Princes.

    Despite his spiky demeanour, Tuchel was hired by PSG in 2018 Credit: AP:Associated Press

    Tuchel had a good relationship with superstar NeymarCredit: AFP or licensors

    The French club run with Qatari money and featuring superstars like Neymar and Kylian Mbappe demanded a boss who respected the club’s values.
    And although he got on well with his star players, aside from one moment when he confronted a disgruntled Mbappe after subbing him off, it was sporting director Leonardo he didn’t agree with.
    Cracks showed after Tuchel gave an interview to German broadcaster Sport1, which he reportedly said he felt like “a sports politician or sports minister than a coach” at PSG.
    “I didn’t like Tuchel’s statements. Neither did the club,” Leonardo retorted.
    “You have to respect the club and the sports management. Whoever is not happy, we have to deal with it internally.”
    The pair also fell out over the signing of defensive midfielder Danilo Pereira, which was sanctioned by the former AC Milan star against the wishes of Tuchel who wanted the club to invest in a central defender.
    Tuchel proceeded to play Pereira in defence – perhaps as a protest.

    PSG sporting director Leonardo accused Tuchel of disrespecting the clubCredit: AFP or licensors

    Tuchel is taking over the Chelsea hot seat after Frank Lampard was sacked by Roman AbramovichCredit: Getty Images – Getty

    Tuchel was also critical of the club’s owners saying PSG let players such as Edinson Cavani and Thiago Silva leave too easily.
    Despite winning the domestic treble, and leading the French giants to their first ever Champions League final, he was dismissed from his post.
    Chelsea and Roman Abramovich will know what they are getting with Tuchel, but if it brings success in the short term the odd spat here or there won’t matter… for now.

    Simon Jordan says that Thomas Tuchel has been lined up by Chelsea for some time More

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    Chelsea coach Joe Edwards takes charge of training as shocked stars get ready for new boss Tuchel after Lampard sacked

    STUNNED Chelsea players were put through their paces in training by coach Joe Edwards following Frank Lampard’s sacking.
    The Blues swung the axe following a miserable run of form that leaves them in ninth spot in the Premier League.

    Chelsea assistant coach Joe Edwards took training todayCredit: Getty Images – Getty

    Chelsea players looked glum after Frank Lampard’s sackingCredit: Doug Seeburg – The Sun

    Many of the players could be playing for their futuresCredit: Getty Images – Getty

    That’s despite a £228.7million summer splurge.
    The Blues squad came together today under the guidance of Edwards, who joined Lampard’s backroom team in the summer of 2019.
    He a former Chelsea schoolboy player who has been a part of the Academy coaching staff since 2004.
    But it is likely to be the 34-year-old’s only training session in charge – the Blues are poised to name Thomas Tuchel as Lampard’s successor.

    The German is even set to be on the bench for Wednesday’s clash against Wolves with the ‘paperwork being sorted’.
    The players were ordered to NOT report for training this morning.
    They were instead told to arrive this afternoon, with Lampard and club bosses locked in talks.
    On Lampard’s sacking, a club statement read: “Chelsea Football Club have today parted company with Head Coach Frank Lampard.

    “This has been a very difficult decision, and not one that the owner and the Board have taken lightly.
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    Edwards is trying to prepare the team as best as he canCredit: Getty Images – Getty

    Despite splashing the cash in summer, Chelsea have failed to click this seasonCredit: Doug Seeburg – The Sun

    Performance advisor Petr Cech has a chat with Mason MountCredit: Doug Seeburg – The Sun

    Jorginho has failed to find any sort of form this seasonCredit: Getty Images – Getty

    “We are grateful to Frank for what he has achieved in his time as Head Coach of the Club.
    “However, recent results and performances have not met the Club’s expectations, leaving the Club mid-table without any clear path to sustained improvement.
    “There can never be a good time to part ways with a club legend such as Frank.
    “But after lengthy deliberation and consideration it was decided a change is needed now to give the Club time to improve performances and results this season.
    “The Club will be making no further comment until such time as a new Head Coach is appointed.”

    He is an important icon of this great club and his status here remains undiminished
    Roman AbramovichChelsea owner

    Owner Roman Abramovich added: “This was a very difficult decision for the Club, not least because I have an excellent personal relationship with Frank and I have the utmost respect for him.
    “He is a man of great integrity and has the highest of work ethics.
    “However, under current circumstances we believe it is best to change managers.
    “On behalf of everyone at the Club, the Board and personally, I would like to thank Frank for his work as Head Coach and wish him every success in the future.
    “He is an important icon of this great club and his status here remains undiminished.
    “He will always be warmly welcomed back at Stamford Bridge.”

    Edwards might face his own fight to stick around on the new boss’ coaching teamCredit: Getty Images – Getty

    Blues players could be receiving instructions from a new manager as soon as WednesdayCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    ⚽ Read our Chelsea live blog for the very latest news from the Bridge

    Frank Lampard sacked by Chelsea after horror run, with Thomas Tuchel favourite to replace him More

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    Rodgers slams Chelsea for ‘not giving Frank Lampard time’ but Guardiola says ‘you have to win or you will be replaced’

    BRENDAN RODGERS has slammed Chelsea for ‘not giving Frank Lampard time’ before his sacking – but Pep Guardiola sympathised with the club.
    Blues legend Lampard, 42, was given the boot on Monday morning after a horror run of form in the Premier League and a year-long battle with club chiefs behind the scenes.

    Frank Lampard deserved more time at Chelsea, says Brendan RodgersCredit: EPA

    The former Derby boss was given his marching orders after chairman Bruce Buck and director Marina Granovskaia called him in for a meeting on Monday morning.
    After a 30-minute chat, Lampard was relieved of his duties – with former Chelsea reserve team boss Rodgers, whose Leicester beat the Blues 2-0 in their most-recent Premier League game, devastated for him.
    Rodgers told Sky Sports: “I’m really sad for Frank, I know how much the club means for him.
    “Looking at the squad, and how young they are, it’s a team and squad that needs time.

    ⚽ Read our Chelsea live blog for the very latest news from the Bridge
    “Unfortunately he hasn’t been given that time.
    “I really, really feel for him… he had the courage to step out of an amazing career as a player.
    “He could have had an easier route, done a great job at Derby and he couldn’t really turn it down.

    “He did a good job last season. Results might not have been what he wanted as he is a winner.
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    Rodgers reckons Lampard needed more time to show what he can doCredit: Getty – Pool

    “He needed time and sadly for him he hasn’t got that time.”
    Meanwhile, Guardiola admitted Chelsea may have made the correct, albeit difficult, decision – because managers must win games these days.
    The Manchester City boss said: “You have to win… the people talk about projects and ideas, but it doesn’t exist.
    “You have to win, if not, you will be sacked.
    “I respect the decision from Chelsea, of course, but a huge hug for Frank and hopefully I can see him soon.
    “When the lockdown will be over I can go to the restaurant to see him again.
    “He was appointed a team like Chelsea after the good job he had done he had done at Derby… these people deserve it.
    “But we depend on the results, not the way we play, not about philosophy or these kind of things or the projects.
    “You have to get results if you don’t, you will be replaced by another manager.”

    Pep Guardiola sees both sides of the argument, but admitted managers must win games or face the sackCredit: EPA

    However, Guardiola did echo Rodgers’ sentiment, suggesting managers need time to settle.
    The Spaniard continued: “I’m not judging the decision from Chelsea, I’m not there. So.. respect.
    “Every manager needs time and that is an exception that happens few places all around the world.
    “It’s difficult, you talk about the projects in the next years or whatever…
    “[But] in one month you can drop everything you’ve built because the opponents are good too… they can win.
    “And when that happens there’s always the risk you are out.”
    Thomas Tuchel is now expected to take over at Chelsea and is set to arrive in time for Wednesday’s game at home to Wolves after agreeing to terms.

    Frank Lampard sacked by Chelsea after horror run, with Thomas Tuchel favourite to replace him More

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    Next Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel’s inner circle, from wife Sissi to assistant Arno Michels and agent Olaf Meinking

    INCOMING Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel has an inner circle of those he trusts featuring these eight people.
    The German boss, who has enjoyed success at Mainz, Borussia Dortmund and most recently PSG, is set to take over from Frank Lampard at Chelsea, who has been sacked by Roman Abramovich.

    Thomas Tuchel’s backroom staff feature as part of his inner circleCredit: Getty Images – Getty

    It is likely that he consulted wife Sissi, who is a huge influence on his career choices before deciding to move to the Premier League.
    And he will bring with him a backroom staff likely to consist of these key members – from a trusted assistant to a video analyst and strict fitness coach.
    Here’s who helps Tuchel, 47, build winning football teams.
    SISSI TUCHEL, WIFE
    Although she’s not involved in footballing decisions, Sissi Tuchel is said to be a huge support to her husband of 11 years.

    It is believed she has a big say on his career choices, where he chooses to manage and acts as a sounding board for him, when the chips are down.
    When it came to his dismissal at Dortmund in 2017, Sissi reportedly visited Paris the summer before to seek a home for them to live in with their two daughters ahead of his appointment at PSG.
    Tuchel and Sissi are rarely seen in public together, preferring to shun the limelight.
    No doubt she has already looked into a life in London for the family.

    Tuchel has been married to wife Sissi for 11 yearsCredit: Getty Images – Getty

    Sissi Tuchel is said to have a big say on Tuchel’s career choicesCredit: Getty Images – Getty

    The pair are rarely seen in public togetherCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    ARNO MICHELS, ASSISTANT
    Since their days at Mainz, Tuchel has worked exclusively with Michels as his assistant manager.
    “He is a diligent, hardworking and loyal trainer whose character traits suit me perfectly,” the gaffer has said of his trusted coach.
    They met when they were learning their coaching badges and Tuchel was adamant Michels would be his assistant, wherever he went, including at Borussia Dortmund and PSG.
    Tuchel and Michels share the same football philosophy – incisive, quick attacking play – and implement their style onto their players.

    Arno Michels is Tuchel’s trusted assistant managerCredit: Getty Images – Getty

    Michels shares the same footballing philosophy as Tuchel for attacking playCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    OLAF MEINKING, AGENT
    There’s no business like show business for Meinking, Tuchel’s agent.
    For Meinking’s talents are more served in representing a stable of German actors and singers.
    His roster of clients isn’t filled with names from the footballing world.
    And that’s because Tuchel prefers it that way.
    “Football agents always have other interests. I wanted to avoid it from the start, ”he once said.
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    Olaf Meinking is Tuchel’s agent and is more of a showbiz man than football fanCredit: Twitter

    Abramovich has spent over £110m on sacking managers since his 2003 arrival
    BENJAMIN WEBER, VIDEO ANALYST
    Video analysts are crucial to Tuchel’s preparations.
    And like Michels, Benjamin Weber has been with Tuchel since his days at Mainz.
    Weber was quick to implement changes at PSG, the moment he arrived.
    On his advice, cameras were installed at the Camp des Loges to record training sessions.
    Expect Big Brother to be watching in Cobham too.

    Benjamin Weber has worked as a video analyst for Tuchel since his Mainz daysCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    ZSOST LOW, COACH
    Low was a recent addition to Tuchel’s coaching team.
    The Hungarian came to PSG after impressing as assistant coach at RB Leipzig.
    Tuchel had already known Low, though.
    He coached him as a player at Mainz and was well aware of his potential to become a trainer.

    Hungarian coach Zsost Low was a former player for Tuchel at MainzCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    ZOUMANA CAMARA, SET-PIECE SPECIALIST
    As is in the modern game, set-piece specialists have become key additions to any forward thinking coaching set-up.
    Chelsea already have Anthony Barry in that role, who was credited with tightening their defence and making the team a bigger threat from corners and free-kicks.
    But should Tuchel want to bring in his own man – Zoumana Camara could be set for the role.
    Camara was assistant to both Laurent Blanc and Unai Emery, but Tuchel put his expertise to use to prepare for set pieces – offensively and defensively.

    Zoumana Camara worked as a set-piece specialist at PSG under TuchelCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    PHILIPP SCHELB, SPECIAL ADVISER
    Mr Discreet, as he has been christened, Schelb is always by Tuchel’s side.
    Munich-born, he deals with the logistical side of a footballing operation.
    From transport to hospitality, he works carefully to ensure the team are looked after.
    Interestingly, Schelb attends ALL post-match press conferences.

    Philipp Schelb is Tuchel’s shadow and works as his personal adviserCredit: Alamy
    RAINER SCHREY, FITNESS COACH
    Described as a mastermind of physical preparation, Schrey has worked with Tuchel since 2011.

    An author of health and fitness books, Schrey is said to be a disciplinarian when it comes to his training methods.
    He doesn’t suffer fools, and also preaches that nutrition is key when it comes to high-performance in athletes.
    Before games, Schrey will put his team through their paces with stretches and drills in the warm-up.

    Strict fitness coach Rainer Schrey puts PSG’s players through their pacesCredit: Getty Images – Getty

    Next Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel is fashion model, former barman, has business degree and refused Bayern Munich More

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    Inside Frank Lampard’s Chelsea sacking including Marina Granovskaia fallout, dressing room rift and being ready to QUIT

    FRANK LAMPARD was sacked by Chelsea on Monday morning – and the warning signs were there for months.
    The club legend, 42, was summoned for talks with chairman Bruce Buck and director Marina Granovskaia less than 24 hours after the 3-1 FA Cup win over Luton.

    Frank Lampard’s sacking was months in the makingCredit: Reuters

    Lampard was swiftly removed from his position in a calm, yet difficult conversation that took just half an hour.
    While Monday’s sacking appeared to be a knee-jerk decision to many fans on the face of it, it was actually months in the making.
    Chelsea overachieved in Lampard’s debut season, finishing fourth and securing a Champions League spot.
    They then spent a monster £228.7million in the summer transfer window – only to sit way back in ninth in the Premier League this term.

    ⚽ Read our Chelsea live blog for the very latest news from the Bridge
    From there, things quickly began to unravel… we take a look at every piece of the puzzle, from his deteriorating relationship with Granovskaia to a rift with his own players.
    Lampard almost immediately put himself under pressure when he criticised the club LAST January.
    The former boss seemed to imply he was frustrated by the board’s decision not to back him in the transfer market despite their embargo being lifted.

    Lampard angered chiefs further around the same time when he dropped club-record signing Kepa Arrizabalaga for six matches.
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    Lampard’s relationship with Granovskaia has been deteriorating since last JanuaryCredit: Getty – Contributor

    The £71.6million Spaniard was axed in favour of veteran Willy Caballero amidst a horror run of form between the sticks.
    The board urged Lampard to encourage Kepa and give him the confidence he needed to succeed.
    Instead, Lampard dropped the Spanish stopper again for the FA Cup semi-final and final, as well as crunch Premier League game with Wolves – before asking for MORE money to bring in a new stopper.
    He ultimately brought in Edouard Mendy in a £24m deal from Rennes.
    The former boss then attempted to sell star defender Antonio Rudiger and move for ex-academy ace Declan Rice – with Lampard vocal in his desire to land the West Ham man.
    Granovskaia wasn’t keen on the idea – especially for what would have surely been a new club-record transfer fee – and also rejected the chance to sign Burnley’s James Tarkowski.
    She and the board ordered Lampard to make do with what he already had, which included free summer moves for Malang Sarr and Thiago Silva.
    A Chelsea source even told The Athletic: “He needs to stop pushing for Rice or he’ll lose his job.
    “The hierarchy are very wary about the potential embarrassment of buying back an academy reject at huge expense.”
    The source then claimed Granovskaia had started to look to the future as early as last year.

    Lampard’s incessant desire to bring Rice back to Chelsea frustrated Granovskaia furtherCredit: Rex Features
    They revealed: “Marina said she was considering her strategy and was actively replanning the managerial situation.”
    Transfers were quickly becoming a bone of contention, with mega-money moves for Kai Havertz and Timo Werner both leaving much to be desired.
    The pair cost a combined £118m and have struggling mightily for form.
    Werner, particularly, has struggled to adapt to life in England with his lack of confidence plain to see, missing a host of open goals, one-on-ones and even a penalty during the 3-1 win over Luton.
    The board was also left concerned by Chelsea’s performances this season.
    While the results were bad, Blues bigwigs were more concerned by the lack of confidence amongst the players.
    A number of stars are said to have been left ‘hurt’ by Lampard’s public criticism of the squad and believed him to lack empathy, despite his long career as a player himself.
    The 2-0 defeat at Leicester proved to be the final nail in the coffin – with Chelsea chiefs spending the next morning looking for a replacement.
    Lampard even shook hands with his players and thanked them for their efforts.
    Even before that, following the 1-0 win over Fulham, the atmosphere in the dressing room ‘felt like goodbye’, according to The Athletic’s source.

    Lampard was accused of lacking empathy by players as he took aim at them in publicCredit: AFP
    The Blues even attempted to bring in Ralf Rangnick on a short-term deal until the end of the season following the Foxes failure.
    Ex-Arsenal target Rangnick rejected the offer, with Chelsea turning their attention to Massimiliano Allegri, Julian Nagelsmann and Thomas Tuchel.
    Former Juventus chief Allegri is believed to be pursuing other options, while RB Leipzig refused to part with Nagelsmann.
    Tuchel, who was sacked by Paris Saint-Germain in December, is now claimed to have ‘agreed’ to join Chelsea.
    The incoming boss is expected to be on the bench for Wednesday’s Premier League clash at home to Wolves, but is currently in Germany pending the results of a coronavirus test
    It’s hoped Tuchel can transform the club’s fortunes, but particularly finally get the best out of Havertz and Werner.
    Lampard appeared to struggle to know where best to play the German duo, with both often starting out of position.
    Natural centre-forward Werner was regularly shunted out left, while No10 Havertz has played in both deeper roles and on the wing.
    Under serious pressure, it’s also claimed Lampard would have QUIT had he been at any other club.
    The fact it was Chelsea was the only thing keeping him at Stamford Bridge.

    But at the same time, the fact it was Lampard was the only reason Roman Abramovich decided to keep him at the club so long as results suffered.
    Abramovich even released a statement following the sacking – the first time he has ever commented on the firing of a manager since taking over in 2003.
    The Russian said: “This was a very difficult decision for the Club, not least because I have an excellent personal relationship with Frank and I have the utmost respect for him’.
    “He is a man of great integrity and has the highest of work ethics. However, under current circumstances we believe it is best to change managers.
    “On behalf of everyone at the Club, the Board and personally, I would like to thank Frank for his work as Head Coach and wish him every success in the future. 
    “He is an important icon of this great club and his status here remains undiminished.
    “He will always be warmly welcomed back at Stamford Bridge.”
    Ultimately though, Lampard leaves Chelsea with the WORST win-rate in the Abramovich era having picked up just seven points from his last eight games in charge.
    To top off Lampard’s chaotic stay, his own players didn’t even hear of his sacking until reports spread online, with club officials keeping them in the dark.

    Next Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel is fashion model, former barman, has business degree and refused Bayern Munich More

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    Thomas Tuchel ‘agrees to become Chelsea manager and will be on bench for Wolves clash’ after Lampard sacking

    THOMAS TUCHEL has agreed to take over from Frank Lampard as Chelsea boss – and will be in charge for Wednesday night’s game against Wolves, according to reports.
    The German boss, 47, was sacked by Paris Saint-Germain shortly before Christmas and has been linked with the Blues job ever since.

    Thomas Tuchel has agreed to replace Frank Lampard at Chelsea, say reportsCredit: Getty Images – Getty

    But now, Sky Sports claim Tuchel is on the brink of taking over from Frank Lampard, who was sacked earlier on Monday with the club ninth in the Premier League.
    Sky’s Max Bielefeld has claimed the deal has been ‘agreed’ with the paperwork currently being drawn up.
    The report states there were no other candidates for the job, despite Massimiliano Allegri and Julian Nagelsmann being linked.
    Tuchel is now expected to be announced as Chelsea boss as early as Monday afternoon.

    ⚽ Read our Chelsea live blog for the very latest news from the Bridge
    Chelsea’s next game is the Premier League clash against Wolves at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday, with kick-off 6pm.
    It’s now expected Tuchel will be on the touchline for the clash, but he is currently in Germany pending the results of a coronavirus test and should touch down in England within 48 hours, say The Athletic.
    However, German publication BILD claim Tuchel is ALREADY in London and will be presented to the Chelsea squad following this afternoon’s training session.

    Tuchel is fluent in English, loves the UK and will be fulfilling a lifelong dream of managing in the Premier League, according to Bielefeld.

    Frank Lampard was sacked by Chelsea earlier on MondayCredit: Getty Images – Getty

    It’s also expected he will be able to help reinvigorate German duo Kai Havertz and Timo Werner after their atrocious start to life at Chelsea.
    Lampard had come under increasing pressure after a horror start to the Premier League season, with the club way down in ninth.
    He was sacked with the WORST point per game return of any manager during the Abramovich era.
    On Lampard’s sacking, a club statement read: “Chelsea Football Club have today parted company with Head Coach Frank Lampard.
    “This has been a very difficult decision, and not one that the owner and the Board have taken lightly.
    “We are grateful to Frank for what he has achieved in his time as Head Coach of the Club.
    “However, recent results and performances have not met the Club’s expectations, leaving the Club mid-table without any clear path to sustained improvement.
    “There can never be a good time to part ways with a club legend such as Frank.
    “But after lengthy deliberation and consideration it was decided a change is needed now to give the Club time to improve performances and results this season.
    “The Club will be making no further comment until such time as a new Head Coach is appointed.”

    And in a rare public comment, owner Roman Abramovich added: “This was a very difficult decision for the Club…
    “Not least because I have an excellent personal relationship with Frank and I have the utmost respect for him.
    “He is a man of great integrity and has the highest of work ethics.
    “However, under current circumstances we believe it is best to change managers.
    “On behalf of everyone at the Club, the Board and personally, I would like to thank Frank for his work as Head Coach and wish him every success in the future.
    “He is an important icon of this great club and his status here remains undiminished.
    “He will always be warmly welcomed back at Stamford Bridge.”

    Frank Lampard sacked by Chelsea after horror run, with Thomas Tuchel favourite to replace him More

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    Frank Lampard’s seven Chelsea transfers rated from best to worst with Havertz and Werner flopping but Chilwell shining

    FRANK LAMPARD has been sacked by Chelsea after a horror run of form – with his moves in the transfer market partly to blame.
    The Blues chief, 42, was just 18 months into a three-year contract at the club.

    Frank Lampard has been sacked by Chelsea after a shocking 2020-21

    But Chelsea players were told to stay away from training on Monday morning, with Lampard locked in talks with club chiefs.
    The club later confirmed Lampard had been sacked.
    Part of the club’s problem this season has been their new signings struggling to adapt to their new home.
    And with Lampard now gone – with Thomas Tuchel set to take over – we take a look at all seven of the former boss’ signings, ranked from best to worst…

    BEN CHILWELL
    Leicester – £50m

    Ben Chilwell was a brilliant signing for Chelsea and has arguably been the club’s best player this season
    CHELSEA spent £228.7million in the summer transfer window – and only £50m of that was truly well spent.
    The England left-back has furthered his reputation at Stamford Bridge with a host of impressive performances.
    Solid at the back and dangerous in attack, Chilwell is a monster upgrade on Emerson and Marcos Alonso.

    Easily Lampard’s best signing and arguably Chelsea’s best player this season full stop.
    ⚽ Read our Chelsea live blog for the very latest news from the Bridge
    THIAGO SILVA
    PSG – Free

    Silva has become a mainstay in the Chelsea defence this seasonCredit: Reuters
    A FREE signing with years of experience in Europe’s Big Five leagues and a huge upgrade to the Chelsea defence, Silva was another gem of a signing.
    After struggling on his debut – the 3-3 draw with West Brom – Silva has become a mainstay in the heart of the Blues defence alongside Kurt Zouma.
    At the age of 36, Silva certainly isn’t one for the future.
    But Lampard deserves credit for recognising the need for a world-class centre-back immediately.
    Imagine their predicament this season without him…
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    EDOUARD MENDY
    Rennes – £24m

    Mendy has cooled off a touch after a red-hot start to life at ChelseaCredit: Getty – Pool
    AN upgrade on Kepa Arrizabalaga? Definitely. A top-four level goalkeeper? The jury’s still out…
    A string of fine performances and clean sheets early in his Chelsea career left Blues supporters delirious with joy, with Mendy the saviour following their Kepa nightmare.
    But more-recently, the ex-Rennes stopper has looked a little more shaky.
    For just £24m, Mendy is certainly a solid signing.
    But compared to the likes of Alisson, Ederson and even David De Gea, he’s not the superstar the club arguably need.
    A fine signing, not an elite one.
    HAKIM ZIYECH
    Ajax – £36.7m

    Ziyech’s potential is undoubted but he has struggled to settle into life at ChelseaCredit: EPA
    ZIYECH is a tough one to judge.
    The Moroccan winger has looked lively in fits and spurts, but has managed just one goal and three assists in ten Premier League games.
    The ex-Ajax man has struggled with injuries and his versatility will be a huge bonus.
    But with Christian Pulisic and Callum Hudson-Odoi already on the books, Ziyech isn’t an immediate starter despite his near £40m price-tag… yet.
    There’s still plenty of time for Ziyech to live up to his undoubted potential, but for now he sits middle of the pack, fourth of seven Lampard signings.
    MALANG SARR
    Nice – Free

    Sarr is one for the future for Chelsea and will likely return from loan next season
    SIGNED from Nice in the summer and immediately loaned out to Porto, Sarr still manages to sit fifth on the list.
    Chelsea need defensive reinforcements and will certainly need to look to the future with Silva coming to the end of his career.
    Signing a talented centre-back full of potential is a smart move, with Sarr tipped to partner Zouma in the coming seasons.
    A lot will depend on his time at Porto, where he has played 12 times so far this season, including five Champions League games.
    KAI HAVERTZ
    Bayer Leverkusen – £70m

    Havertz has looked lost in the Premier League, a far cry from his Bundesliga self
    CHELSEA were willing to throw a whopping £70m at Bayer Leverkusen to sign German wonderkid Havertz in the summer.
    However, they’ve been lumbered with a player devoid of confidence and struggling for form.
    Havertz has hardly been helped by Lampard, who doesn’t seem to know where he best fits into his team.
    The German being struck down by coronavirus earlier in the season didn’t help his cause either.
    But with just one goal and two assists in 16 Premier League games – for £70m, remember – Havertz’s spell has been thoroughly underwhelming.
    TIMO WERNER
    RB Leipzig – £48m

    Timo Werner has been abysmal for Chelsea this season after his purple patch at Leipzig last termCredit: PA:Press Association
    TO be below Havertz on the list takes some doing, but Werner has somehow managed it…
    Expected to be the superstar striker Chelsea so desperately craved, the ex-RB Leipzig star has been appalling since moving to London.
    Werner’s return of four goals in 19 Premier League games is bad enough.
    But the stats only tell half the story, with Werner without a league goal since November 7 during the win over basement-boys Sheffield United.
    The German has missed a hatful of open goals, one-on-ones and even a penalty at the weekend.
    Werner looks devoid of confidence and has struggled both as a central striker and left-winger.
    For £48m, he’s at real risk of featuring on future ‘worst transfers ever’ lists unless he bucks up his ideas… and quickly.

    Frank Lampard comes out fighting with his job on the line to attack reporters criticising Chelsea More