Chelsea sack Graham Potter after defeat to Aston Villa

Chelsea have sacked Graham Potter after less than seven months in charge at Stamford Bridge.

Potter was appointed as Chelsea’s head coach in September 2022, following the departure of Thomas Tuchel.

Despite a promising start to his tenure, which saw the club reach the knockout stages of the Champions League, their domestic form has dipped in recent months.

The decision to sack Potter was made after a string of disappointing results, including the 2-0 defeat to Aston Villa on Saturday.

Club hierarchy, including owner Todd Boehly, felt that a change was needed with the Blues currently 12 points outside the top four.

Boehly has overseen £550million worth of incomings this season as he looked to propel Chelsea back amongst Europe’s elite.

“Chelsea FC has announced that Graham Potter has departed the club,” said a statement posted on Chelsea’s official website.

“Graham has agreed to collaborate with the Club to facilitate a smooth transition.

“In his time with the club, Graham has taken us to the quarter final of the Champions League, where we will face Real Madrid.

“Chelsea would like to thank Graham for all his efforts and contribution and wish him well for the future.”

Co-controlling owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali said: “We have the highest degree of respect for Graham as a coach and as a person.

“He has always conducted himself with professionalism and integrity and we are all disappointed in this outcome.”

Chelsea play Liverpool in the Premier League on Tuesday, before a Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid on 12 April.