Tuchel opens up on Rudiger replacement after defender told him he’s leaving Chelsea in summer
Following Chelsea’s 1-0 win over West Ham, Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel has confirmed the departure of Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger.
The Blues boss said: “Toni, the media is on it. The situation is that he wants to leave the club.
“He informed me of this in a private talk.
“We had big offers for him and the club tried everything. But for some weeks, we can’t fight anymore. We can’t continue.”
Chelsea have been linked with a number of centre-backs but the manager has refused to confirm any names.
Tuchel said when asked about potential replacements: “At the moment no because of the sanctions but then it will be difficult because Toni is what he is.”
“A big personality, a leader, and he takes fear away from other people. He gives players confidence and plays matches with consistency.
“It will be challenging but like always, no matter how much I love Toni, there will be Chelsea without Toni and we will find solutions.”
It is officially confirmed that Rudiger will leave Chelsea on free transfer this summer.