Chelsea boss Tuchel reveals 'long talk' with Sterling; opens door to Lewandowski

Posted Saturday, July 16, 2022 by Tribalfootball.com

Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel says Manchester City attacker Raheem Sterling had no hesitation wanting to move to the Blues.

In 2018, Chelsea issued a lifetime ban to a supporter accused of shouting racist abuse at Sterling as he retrieved the ball in front of the Matthew Harding stand, while five other fans were temporarily banned for their behaviour during the match.

The incident did not come up in the talks over his £47.5million transfer to Chelsea but Tuchel is sure the 27-year-old will have a positive relationship with Blues supporters.

"I had a long talk with him and he had no hesitation about coming," said Tuchel, speaking at the Chelsea training camp here in Los Angeles on their pre-season tour of America.

"He didn't mention [the incident in 2018] and I think he knows that one person does not reflect the opinion and the values of Chelsea. Whoever did this has no right to ever come to a football stadium.

"He should be held responsible for what he did. He is stupid enough to have done it and hold these kinds of opinions. From there, we don't worry any more. He is more than welcome in our group.

"I told him that everyone is very excited and happy to get [the transfer] over the finishing line. His arrival gave us a big boost and it is hopefully only the beginning of a strong transfer [window] where we need to be competitive. I see no other reason to give him anything other than a very warm welcome with us and how we work together."

And the German revealed he would be interested in Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski if he becomes available, though he does not think that will happen.

"I don't think we have a chance for Lewandowski but if there is a chance… he is one of the best No9s," said Tuchel.