Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel is unwilling to let Cesar Azpilicueta move to Barcelona. (Credit: Alastair Grant/AP)
According to The Mirror, Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel is ready to take a stand regarding Cesar Azpilicueta and his move to Barcelona this summer.
The Blues skipper has been heavily linked with a move to the Nou Camp and is open to the idea of working with Xavi Hernandez back in his home country. Having won it all at Chelsea, one can understand our skipper’s sentiments on the matter.
Tuchel however sees it differently and is far from convinced about letting his veteran defender go. He admitted to as much when questioned about the 32-year-old’s future.
“I’m not sure if I want to give Azpi what he wants.”
Azpilicueta is not just an experienced player for Chelsea but at 32 is also a leader in the team. He has worn the armband with distinction over the years and is also versatile enough to fulfil several roles across the backline.
The Blues are going through a summer of change and should he leave, Azpilicueta will become the third high-profile to depart the club this summer. Given that we are rebuilding under Tuchel, losing the 32-year-old could make the transition difficult, causing a void in the leadership hierarchy.
Tuchel as Chelsea’s manager has the right to put the club’s interests first and appears to be doing just that. Several difficult decisions have to be taken by the elite managers and the Blues boss is also now on that list.
“At some point it is also about us.”
Tuchel admits that on a personal level, he admits to being aware of Azpilicueta’s thoughts. However, his role as Chelsea manager makes him take a more nuanced approach to the situation.
“I am not only in my role to give him what he wants and what makes sense for him. I am also manager of Chelsea and I have to do what is best for Chelsea.”
With the 2022/23 season fast approaching, Chelsea have to be prepared for what will be another competitive campaign in the English top flight. They have already brought in Raheem Sterling and Kalidou Koulibaly while a deal for Jules Kounde is drawing closer to being completed.
Barcelona have been a constant thorn in our side this summer. They beat us to the punch in both the Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski transfer sagas while also throwing their name into the hat for Kounde.
Andreas Christensen joined the Catalans on a free transfer and could also potentially be joined by Marcos Alonso. Chelsea have no reason to do the Nou Camp outfit any more favours and should do everything in their power to hold onto Azpilicueta.
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