Graham Potter has vowed to develop a team and culture Chelsea fans can be proud of after being appointed as Thomas Tuchel’s replacement.
The Blues moved quickly to replace Tuchel, who was fired yesterday after a 1-0 loss to Dinamo Zagreb.
That dreadful Champions League performance on Tuesday night saw the German bow out on a low note in a tournament he led the Blues to victory in 2020-21.
Potter, 47, agreed to take over at Stamford Bridge after Chelsea paid the release clause in his contract with Brighton.
“I am incredibly proud and excited to represent this fantastic football club,” the new Blues manager said after signing a five-year contract.
“I am very excited to work with Chelsea’s new ownership group and look forward to meeting and working with the exciting group of players, as well as developing a team and culture that our incredible fans can be proud of.”
“I would also like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Brighton for providing me with this opportunity, and in particular to Tony Bloom and all of the players, staff, and supporters for their unwavering support throughout my time at the club.”
Before taking over at Chelsea, Graham Potter led Brighton to fourth place in the Premier League table.
Blues chairman Todd Boehly added: “We are thrilled to bring Graham to Chelsea.
“He is a proven Premier League coach and an innovator who fits our vision for the club.”
“Not only is he extremely talented on the field, but he also possesses skills and capabilities that extend beyond the field, making Chelsea a more successful club.”
“He has had a significant impact at his previous clubs, and we look forward to seeing the same at Chelsea.”
“In the coming months and years, we look forward to assisting him, his coaching staff, and the squad in reaching their full potential.”
Bloom could not hide his sadness at losing his head coach, despite Brighton’s fourth-place finish in the Premier League, and paid tribute to Potter’s achievements at the Amex Stadium.
“I am very disappointed that Graham will be leaving us,” said the Seagulls’ chairman.
“He has done exceptionally well over the last three and a half seasons, and he is an exceptional head coach as well as an exceptional person.”
“He will be sorely missed by everyone at our football club.”
“He leaves an excellent legacy for his successor, with the club in its highest ever position and having led us to our best finish in club history last season.”
Potter’s first game as Chelsea manager will be a London derby against Fulham on Saturday lunchtime.