Not just Zagreb defeat: 3 reasons why Chelsea sacked Tuchel named by top source

According to Matt Law of The Telegraph, Chelsea's concerns with Thomas Tuchel had been mounting for quite a long time. Their decision to axe the head coach did not come solely because of the Blues' 1-0 defeat in Zagreb or the team's poor performances of late.

Firstly, Todd Boehly had doubts whether the German was 'the right man to lead the new era' at Chelsea.

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Secondly, the new owner and Tuchel had 'issues behind the scenes'. The head coach was unhappy with the additional responsibilities he was given when Marina Granovskaia and Petr Cech left the club.

Thirdly, the German's relationship with a number of players had broken down. Players were unhappy to be left on the bench or played out of their positions.