Graham Potter has been appointed as Chelsea’s next head coach, succeeding Thomas Tuchel on a five-year contract. Todd Boehly and Chelsea’s ownership moved quickly to sign the former Brighton manager after breaking up with Tuchel on Wednesday after Chelsea’s defeat to Dinamo Zagreb.
Following his official signing on Thursday, Potter will participate in training for the first time on Friday in preparation for the Blues’ upcoming Premier League encounter against Fulham. While the Blues sought a new manager, Anthony Barry oversaw training.
Following the announcement, Potter stated, “I am incredibly proud and excited to represent Chelsea FC, this fantastic football club. I am very excited to partner with Chelsea’s new ownership group and look forward to meeting and working with the exciting group of players and developing a team and culture that our amazing fans can be proud of.” Potter also expressed gratitude to Brighton & Hove Albion, specifically Tony Bloom, for allowing him this opportunity.
The 47-year-old has had a great career, beginning with Ostersunds and leading the Swedish club to the Europa League. After a brief stint at Swansea City, where he led the Welsh club to 10th place in the Championship, Brighton approached Potter and proceeded to strengthen his name during his three years at the Amex Stadium.
Those in the ownership group have praised the English coach as an innovator, with Todd Boehly remarking that his abilities extend beyond those on the field.
The club’s chairman, Todd Boehly said they are excited to have Graham join Chelsea. “He is a proven coach and an innovator in the Premier League who fits our vision for the Club”, adds Boehly. He further stated that in addition to being incredibly talented on the field, Graham also possesses skills and capabilities that will make Chelsea a more successful Club.
After a shaky start to the season and amid rumours of off-field conflict with the team’s new ownership, Tuchel was fired.
Chelsea said in a statement that, despite investing more than £250 million on new players during their first summer transfer window under Boehly’s ownership, it was the “right time” to make a change.
In May, Roman Abramovich’s team was acquired by a group under the direction of American businessman Boehly.
