After replacing Thomas Tuchel as Chelsea FC’s head coach on Thursday, Graham Potter made a promise to build a team that the club’s supporters could be proud of.
Following a lackluster start to the new season on Wednesday, chairman Todd Boehly decided to fire Tuchel and has now turned to Potter in his quest for a replacement.
Potter signed a five-year deal at Stamford Bridge after leading Brighton and Hove Albion to 13 points from their opening six Premier League games.
Potter acknowledged his joy in making the transition.
He said:
“I am incredibly proud and excited to represent Chelsea FC, this fantastic football club.
“I am very excited to partner with Chelsea’s new ownership group.
“And look forward to meeting and working with the exciting group of players.
“Developing a team and culture that our amazing fans can be proud of.
“And I would also like to sincerely thank Brighton and Hove Albion for allowing me this opportunity and in particular Tony Bloom and all the players, staff and supporters for their continued support during my time at the club.”
In a statement, Brighton acknowledged their appreciation for Potter’s work, with chairman Bloom saying:
“I am very disappointed that Graham will be leaving us.
“He has done exceptionally well over the past three-and-a-bit seasons.
“He is an exceptional head coach and an exceptional person.
“And he will be hugely missed at our football club.
“He leaves an excellent legacy for his successor with the club in its highest ever position.
“And on the back, leading us to our highest finish last season in the club’s history.”
He oversaw Ostersunds’ ascent from Swedish football’s fourth division to qualification for the European Championship.
Swansea, a Championship team, was led to the FA Cup quarterfinals by Potter, who made an impression.
Since 2019, he has been in charge of Brighton.
Last season, Potter changed the Seagulls’ playing strategy and guided them to a ninth-place Premier League finish.
Brighton was the only Premier League team to gain possession in the final third more frequently than Manchester City and Liverpool last season.
Only the top three teams in the division had less than 11 losses in the same period.
Potter inherits a Chelsea side which was strengthened significantly in the recent transfer window, with the likes of Raheem Sterling, Kalidou Koulibaly, Marc Cucurella, Wesley Fofana and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang among their high-profile additions.
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