Tuchel gives an update on Chelsea squady ahead of Dinamo Zagreb game.
Speaking in the press conference ahead of Chelsea’s opening Champions League game against Dinamo Zagreb (h/t Football.London), Blues manager Thomas Tuchel gave his update on why Thiago Silva hasn’t travelled to Croatia with the squad, whether Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Denis Zakaria are available and more.
The German confirmed that the deadline day signings Aubameyang and Zakaria are with the squad in Croatia and trained normally ahead of the game. They will be available.
Meanwhile, Silva has been given a game off as he recovers from stress after having to play every league game so far this season. Seems as if the club are not looking to take any chances with the 37-year-old Brazilian.
Speaking about him and others, here’s the Chelsea boss (h/t Football.London):
We decided with Thiago that he will have a break from the travelling and the stress after playing every minute so far in very intense matches.
We had the opportunity to take everyone who was in training and available to Zagreb to do our last training. That includes Denis and Auba. If everything goes well today they will both be available.
When asked about Reece James’ fitness and availability, Tuchel emphasised the fact that the player is ready to start if everything goes well, but won’t play 90 minutes
So, even though Silva won’t be playing this game and N’Golo Kante continues to be sidelined, it is still a strong squad that has been named to play Zagreb.
With strong signings made to bolster every department of the pitch, the depth is there in the squad to cope with injuries and suspensions to some of the key players too.
After an underwhelming performance that was enough to beat West Ham United, Tuchel and his men would be hoping for a better showing in Croatia to kickstart their Champions League campaign.
In this competition, it is all about starting well so that there is room to manoeuvre later on and rotate the squad to focus on important league games. With all due respect, the Blues have got a group where they can start fast and confirm their qualification before match-day six.
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