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Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel removed striker Romelu Lukaku from the squad ahead of the home game against Liverpool on Sunday. Why?
According to British media reports, the background is an interview that Lukaku gave to the Italian branch of Sky Sports without consulting his club. The Belgian had scored for the Blues in the last two Premier League games.
In the interview that was broadcast last week, the 28-year-old complained about too little time at Chelsea and indirectly criticized Tuchel. «I am physically fit. I’m just not happy with the situation, but that’s normal, ”said Lukaku. “I think the boss decided to play with a different formation.”
Chelsea – Liverpool
So 02.01. 17:25 – 19:30 ∙ blue Sport Live ∙ Le direct: Chelsea FC – Liverpool FC
The Belgian had also said he hoped to play again for his former club Inter Milan at some point. Lukaku had only moved from Milan to London in the summer. With the equivalent of around 115 million euros, it is the most expensive transfer in Chelsea’s club history.
Tuchel reacted angrily to the interview and described Lukakus’ statements as “not helpful”. “Of course we don’t like that,” he said. “It brings in background noises that we don’t need.” Chelsea FC are second in the table, but are already eleven points behind leaders Manchester City, who have played one more game.
dpa