Kepa Arrizabalaga issues verdict on Chelsea’s decision to sack Thomas Tuchel

Chelsea star Kepa Arrizabalaga has opened up on Thomas Tuchel’s departure from Stamford Bridge.

Tuchel was an instant hit at Chelsea, winning the Champions League within months of taking over from Frank Lampard.

A turbulent season followed, with ownership issues scuppering the Blues’ season last term, although they were never really on course to challenge the top two.

This summer, Chelsea spent a record figure under new owner Todd Boehly, and he was given very little opportunity to turn things around after a disappointing start.

Tuchel was sent on his way, and it’s not an ideal start to life for new owner Boehly, who has already been heavily criticised for his management of the club early in his rein.

Graham potter has since been lured from Brighton, and it will be interesting to see how the Englishman manages the step up.

In the meantine, goalkeeper Kepa, who was usually the number two under Tuchel, has spoken about the German’s exit.

“We are sad because Thomas achieved big things with us,” he told the Evening Standard via SportBible.

“We had a very good time with him. It is sad always when one manager gets sacked.

“And now with Graham, we have a new start, different ideas and I think the fans are waiting to see what is going to happen and how it will be.

“So let’s train, let’s take his ideas quickly and now we have a couple of weeks without a game, so let’s train and get these ideas.”

Interestingly, Kepa has started Chelsea’s last two fixtures, both in the Champions League.

It’s unclear whether Kepa will start in the Premier League amid some poor form from usual number one Edouard Mendy, who is also battling injury.

But it’s just one of a number of interesting selection decisions facing Potter as he gets to grips with his new squad.