Thomas Tuchel isn’t like most coaches.
He has proved that time and time again during his relatively short spell in
charge of Chelsea.
The German’s willingness to give thoughtful, analytical and
truly in-depth tactical responses to questions in press conferences is rare. As
is his ability to dissect a match mere moments after it has ended
That latter trait is something that has been evident
throughout Tuchel’s coaching career. And it’s not one shared by all coaches,
even at the very top level.
It gives a window into the mind of the 47-year-old. Enables
those watching at home – and when possible in the stands – to understand why
certain choices were made, why certain results occurred.
Take, for example, one of the statement victories of
Tuchel’s coaching career.
On September 18, 2019, he oversaw Paris Saint-Germain’s 3-0
win over Real Madrid in the Champions League, a result all the more impressive
given Neymar, Kylian Mbappe and Edinson Cavani were absent due
to injury and suspension.
Angel Di Maria scored twice that night at the Parc des
Princes while Thomas Meunier also struck. It wasn’t a scoreline that flattered
the home side as Los Blancos didn’t muster a single shot on target.
I’m very happy with the whole team because it was really
difficult,” Tuchel explained to RMC Sport shortly after the full-time whistle
had been blown.”
We had a lot of chances, but there were also some stages for
Real where we suffered. But we stayed structured, always tight, aggressive and
compact. Really, it was a complete performance.”
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