Frank Lampard looks set to be replaced by Thomas Tuchel as Chelsea boss, but what will he bring to Stamford Bridge?
The appointment of Tuchel certainly shows a change in direction from that under Lampard. From an inexperienced club legend, the German will be the seasoned hand they will hope can turn their season around. Known for his attacking football, and fiery nature, it’ll be interesting to see how he settles at Stamford Bridge.
While Frank Lampard was fairly stubborn with sticking to a 4-3-3 system, where Tuchel excels is his tactical flexibility. In his time at Paris Saint Germain, he experimented with a 4-4-2 and a 4-2-3-1 as well as switching to a three at the back on occasion. This sort of flexibility should be a bonus to players like Timo Werner and Kai Havertz. Werner, in particular, has struggled in Lampard’s system, with his recent form raising questions over his signing.
Where he blossomed at RB Leipzig was in a two striker system. Making runs from deep, his sheer pace made him incredibly difficult to track. From there his excellent finishing saw him score 28 goals in his final season in the Bundesliga. Havertz too could thrive in a new system with a German manager to help him settle in the Premier League.
Despite a strong start, Havertz’s form has dropped since Chelsea moved him from his favoured number 10 role. With Tuchel coming in, he could be the man to get the most out of the Blues’ summer signings.
However, while it’s easy to see him providing a new tactical outlook at Chelsea, there could be issues off the pitch. Thomas Tuchel is a strong personality to put it lightly, and he has previously fallen out with club hierarchies. His public argument with PSG’s sporting director, Leonardo last year is not a great indicator for his relationship with Chelsea’s hierarchy.
Given the issues, Chelsea has had with fiery managers such as Antonio Conte and Jose Mourinho the move is a risk. However, if Tuchel can keep peace with Chelsea’s hierarchy, there’s certainly potential in his appointment.
