Thomas Tuchel has admitted that he is personally feeling the effects of Chelsea’s tough schedule and that may be reflecting in the team’s performances.
The Blues started the season as one of the Premier League title contenders alongside Liverpool and Manchester City. They could not keep up the consistency of those above them – but had the Champions League to fall back on as holders.
However, they exited Europe’s premier competition in what became a quarter-final shoot-out with Real Madrid.
What’s more, that 5-4 aggregate scoreline came amid a run of three consecutive home defeats. That is the worst run at Stamford Bridge for 29 years.
Arsenal won 4-2 at Chelsea on Wednesday to take the total tally of goals conceded in that run to 11. Madrid scored three there after Brentford hit the Blues for another four.
Speaking on Friday, Tuchel concluded that the busy schedule – which has also included a triumphant FA Cup semi-final over Crystal Palace – has taken its toll.
“I reflect on the signals we give,” the German told a press conference. “We only had two days between the games coming from Wembley and I felt very tired after the Southampton, Real Madrid and then the Wembley game. I felt it.
“I asked myself what signals I gave and whether I should’ve pushed harder. On an evening game, I think there is still enough time to prepare and get into the right mood.
“You don’t always feel the same level of excitement before every match, you shouldn’t expect it.
“It has nothing to do that you do it less serious or prepare with less quality. I don’t want to get confused with this thinking now because we trust ourselves and prepare with the best way possible. But it is a bit of a weird result.”
Tuchel blamed “completely individual mistakes” from the likes of Andreas Christensen and Cesar Azpilicueta against Arsenal.
He also blamed the Stamford Bridge pitch but backtracked on that on Friday.
Tuchel brings out Chelsea stats
Having spoken to…