Tuchel: It was an honour to be Chelsea manager

Thomas Tuchel has reacted for the first time since his shock sacking as Chelsea manager earlier this week.

Tuchel was sensationally sacked on Wednesday, less than 12 hours after Chelsea lost 1-0 at Dinamo Zagreb in their Champions League opener.

The German manager was handed his marching orders after a poor start to the season and due to friction with the club’s American owner Todd Boehly.

But Tuchel has reacted with class to his dismissal.

What did Tuchel say?

"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,” Tuchel tweeted.

"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."

Tuchel arrived at Chelsea in January 2021, replacing Frank Lampard.

He proved an instant hit as he led the Blues to Champions League glory just four months later.

He also led Chelsea to the UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup, coaching Chelsea for 100 games, winning 60 of those.

Tuchel was replaced as Chelsea manager by Brighton coach Graham Potter.