Graham Potter makes low-key start but is symbol of new Chelsea culture

Welcome, then, Mr blue sky. As grand entrances go, in the long storied history of seizing the stage … well, this wasn’t really either of those. Instead Graham Potter’s first appearance as Chelsea manager was very much a reflection of the Graham Potter persona, the Graham Potter energy, the Graham Potter process.

Chelsea took a point at home to RB Salzburg and were solid, room temperature, mildly encouraging in their energy levels. But really of course, this was about an entrance. Did we get one? Kind of.

Stamford Bridge was a clammy place at kick-off, soothed by a power-ballad playlist that staked out a middle ground between “stadium” and respectful.

There were union flags and a chorus of God Save The Queen (nice: old school) from both ends. And finally Potter came out, shaking hands, being nice, stooping a little. No waves, no performative stuff, nothing that really said: “I am actually new here you know.” As grand entrances go this was the managerial equivalent of taking your lunch tray and going to sit at the empty seat down from the teachers.

Instead Potter just stood there, comfortably, in his rectangle, dressed in a black suit and skinny black tie, looking a little bit wedding-guest-the-morning-after. He gestured a bit. He clapped. He shouted at Mateo Kovacic. But basically this looked like Graham Potter unexpectedly watching a football match . If nobody really cheered or sang his name, then Chelsea fans are loyal to their managers, but also choosy in how they bestow their favours. What will they make of Graham? How will this thing play?

Not least as Potter is very clearly intended as an expression of the new club culture, whatever that may be. Todd Boehly’s billionaire-bro schtick will be fascinating to watch and