Thomas Tuchel has responded to speculation linking him with the Manchester United job and his hopes for Chelsea’s new owners.
Chelsea’s immediate future is uncertain following the government sanctions placed on Russian owner Roman Abramovich, amid his alleged ties to Vladimir Putin.
The west Londoners are operating under a special licence granted to permit football-related activity, though the number of sanctions include a ban on ticket sales, revenues, merchandise and transfers.
Chelsea’s situation has led to speculation that Tuchel could leave the club, with Manchester United – in search of a permanent manager for next season – having been linked with an approach.
Tuchel has reiterated his happiness at Chelsea, however, and says the current situation has not impacted his commitment to the club.
“Do you feel me less committed or involved with this club. Absolutely not,” he told his pre-match press conference ahead of the FA Cup quarter-final at Middlesbrough.
“I love to work for Chelsea and this club has everything it needs to make me happy.”
Chelsea remain up for sale at present with a number of interested parties having made approaches, the final deadline for takeover bids set for Friday. Tuchel has outlined his hopes for the new ownership, but says his immediate focus remains on football.
“Hopefully they love winning, that would be a big plus,” he said.
“I’m absolutely not involved, zero. I’m informed from time to time, but we have a pretty tight schedule so I’m happy not to be informed of every little step and chance in the process. Because that gives me also the advantage to focus on football and the staff here.
“So of course, I’m informed but not asked and it’s also not necessary, it’s not my job and not my role.
“Everybody hopes it will be completed quickly. And as I understand the hope is and we can trust this is maybe solved quicker than usual.
“Actually I am an employee and that’s why I’m ready to play my role, so I’m ready to adapt and let’s see what’s coming.
“It’s uncertain times and uncertainty can create sometimes for some people fear, it’s normal.”
