Thomas Tuchel has admitted he has collapsed and "feeled devastated" after being sacked as Chelsea coach, following his mediocre start to the season.
The 49-year-old German coach was sacked last Wednesday, one day after the shock 1-0 loss to Dinamo Zagreb in his first match in the Champions League this season.
"It's one of the hardest statements I've ever written, and I wish I hadn't had to write it for so many years," Tuchel wrote on Twitter on Sunday.
"This is the club that felt like my home, both professionally and personally," he added.
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.
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— Thomas Tuchel (@TTuchelofficial) September 11, 2022
Tuchel left an immediate imprint after the succession of Frank Lampard in January 2021, as he succeeded in reviving Chelsea's Premier League season, and led him to crown the Champions League title by defeating Manchester City in the final.
"I will forever be proud and happy to help the team win the Champions League and the FIFA Club World Cup. I have been honored to form a part of the history of this club, and the memories of the last 19 months will remain in a special place in my heart."
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.
— Thomas Tuchel (@TTuchelofficial) September 11, 2022
On Thursday, Chelsea announced the appointment of Graham Potter, Brighton coach, to replace Tuchel.
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 honored 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.
— Thomas Tuchel (@TTuchelofficial) September 11, 2022