Thomas Tuchel says ‘nobody is bigger than Chelsea amidst Antonio Rudiger contract stand-off
According to Evening Standard, Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel has declared that even though Antonio Rudiger is ‘super important for his system, no individual player is more important than the club.
The German international’s Chelsea contract remains a dilemma. He has just months left on his current deal which expires next summer. However, the recent development suggests that the German defender is more out than in.
It is believed that the former Roma man would be eligible to earn a whopping £400,000-a-week after joining a new club which is a massive upgrade on his current contract.
However, Thomas Tuchel has hinted the Blues to not bow down to an individual player’s demands; even it comes at the cost of losing out on his services.
In a recent press conference, the former Paris Saint manager acknowledged the importance of Rudiger and suggested that everyone in the club is aware of the significance.
“It is super important, and as I understood, like myself and everybody else, we absolutely accept the importance, we are fully aware of the importance of Toni and the role he is playing on and off the pitch.”
However, the Champions League-winning manager also suggested that no player could be given a royalty status as the club comes before any individual, and the team wins games, not a single player.
“And yes, it is true nobody is bigger than a club; nobody is. This is a team effort, it is a team game, it is a strong club, and it is also about the club.”
The former Dortmund manager also reflected on the current contract update involving the German international. Tuchel urged for patience as the pieces fall where they may.
“In the end, we need a bit of patience. I have no update right now.”
Rudiger has performed exceptionally well in the last two seasons. He helped Chelsea to reach extensive heights. Last season’s Champions League heroics show how essential he is to the team.
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Furthermore, currently, Rudiger ranks among the best defenders in the world. Thus, the Blues would face massive difficulty in replacing such a player. Even at a high cost, Thomas Tuchel’s team wouldn’t be able to find a viable replacement very easily.
However, giving in to his every demand could prove damaging in the long run. Marina Granovskaia’s board will have a tough job on their hand as they look to make a decision. . Sooner or later, they have to come to a conclusion that best serves the club.
