Thomas Tuchel has his say on Chelsea’s Champions League ambitions

Thomas Tuchel claims Champions League isn’t a priority for Chelsea this season

Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel has gone on to clear his stance on winning the Champions League this season. The German manager has cooled down expectations from the continental competition citing that there is no specific precedence for any competition. (h/t Daily Mail)

On being asked about whether the Champions League would take higher importance at this stage of the season, Tuchel had a rather surprising reply.

“No. My priority is the next game we play. That has never been different and hopefully will never change because it’s exactly what I expect from my players and my teams: that when we wear a Chelsea shirt, we play a Chelsea game and that means we play to win and give 100 per cent of effort and intensity. It’s very nice and exciting to play Champions League games in the knockout stages but there is no preference.”

It does leave room for questions as to whether Tuchel is downplaying his side’s chances in the competition or simply not concerned with the gravity of it. Quite how the club higher-ups have taken the statement is also up for debate.

Tuchel took over the reins at Chelsea last month, following the sacking of Frank Lampard. The German tactician is yet to lose a single game in charge of the Blues since assuming the managerial responsibilities.

More Chelsea News:

• Arsene Wenger thinks Chelsea will miss out on top four this season
• Timo Werner opens up on his Chelsea struggles
• Jamie Carragher speaks in support of Chelsea youngster Callum Hudson-Odoi

Chelsea will have a daunting task in the form of Atletico Madrid in their round of 16 games. La Liga leaders, Atleti aren’t the easiest of opponents to break down but it will rest on Tuchel who is taking charge of the Blues for the first time in this competition.