Tuchel breaks silence on Chelsea exit: 'I am devastated!''

Former Chelsea head coach Thomas Tuchel has finally broken his silence, speaking on his time at the club after he was prematurely sacked just seven games into the 2022/23 season.

The German guided the Blues to only their second Champions League triumph in the club's history last year and the Club World Cup crown in February.

However, amid suggestions that his relationship with new owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali had deteriorated, Tuchel was sacked last Wednesday, less than 24 hours after Chelsea's defeat to Dinamo Zagreb.

"This is one of the most difficult statements I have ever had to write – and it is one which I hoped I would not need to do for many years," the 49-year-old posted on Twitter on Sunday evening.

"I am devastated that my time at Chelsea has come to an end. This is a club where I felt at home, both professionally and personally.

"Thank you so much to all the staff, the players and the supporters for making me feel very welcome from the start.

"The pride and joy I felt at helping the team to win the Champions League, and the Club World Cup will stay with me forever.

"I am honoured to have been a part of this club's history, and the memories of the last 19 months will always have a special place in my heart."

This is one of the most difficult statements I have ever had to write - and it is one which I hoped I would not need to do for many years. I am devastated that my time at Chelsea has come to an end. pic.twitter.com/0TTlUOjWDx

On Thursday afternoon, Chelsea confirmed Graham Potter's appointment as Tuchel's replacement on a five-year contract.

Potter is expected to be in the Stamford Bridge dugout on Wednesday (21:00) for the first time as Chelsea takes on RB Salzburg in the Champions League.