Thomas Tuchel decision proves why Chelsea must reignite £56m interest to protect secret weapon

Thomas Tuchel's mouth-watering tactical invention took Chelsea within touching distance of a Champions League semi-final. Karim Benzema guided Real Madrid to a 5-4 aggregate win over the Blues, despite returning to Cobham 3-2 victors on the night.

Chelsea's plan revolved around nullifying the Spanish giants' star-studded strike force. And, a key cog in the west London side's machine was Reece James, who replaced Andreas Christensen on the right of a back-three.

The Denmark international struggled to keep his head above the water when Vinicius Jr ran riot in the first leg. While it meant that the Blues sacrificed an element of James' prowess in the final third, Tuchel's side was able to neutralise the Brazil international to near-perfect effect.

Christian Pulisic can help new Chelsea owners finalise deal as Thomas Tuchel prepares audition

Despite James' efforts, Carlo Ancelotti's side eventually found the breakthrough down the right-hand side when Eduardo Camavinga intercepted Thiago Silva's stray pass. Los Blancos dispossessed Chelsea when the Cobham graduate found himself — through no fault of his own — hugging the touchline and beyond that of Vinicius Jr.

Luis Suarez and Micah Richards agree on Benfica striker Darwin Nunez amid Arsenal transfer talk

Mikel Arteta explains his decision to play Granit Xhaka at left-back against Brighton

Conte admits he's still trying to improve Kane at Tottenham

Bruno Lage slaps £100m price tag on Ruben Neves amid Arsenal interest

Thomas Tuchel has no regrets following Chelsea's Champions League exit

Are Arsenal's Top 4 Hopes Over

Thomas Tuchel on decisions going against Chelsea vs Real Madrid

Mikel Arteta praises Granit Xhaka turnaround

Thomas Tuchel reacts after Chelsea eliminated by