Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel admitted he was upset by Antonio Rudiger’s decision to leave the Stamford Bridge fold come the end of the season.
Rudiger, whose deal at Stamford Bridge expires at the end of the season, is poised to join his longstanding suitors Real Madrid on a four year contract after snubbing extended terms in the English capital.
The German international defender’s representatives have held talks with Barcelona last month as the likes of Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus also keep tabs on Rudiger’s contract impasse.
Real Madrid, however, are tipped to be in pole position to land the defender’s coveted signature on a free transfer with Rudiger set to make the move to the La Liga heavyweights and leave the Blues camp.
Speaking ahead of Chelsea taking on top four challengers Manchester United, quoted by a report from Sky Sports, Tuchel admitted that Rudiger’s imminent departure has been upsetting for the club but the player would continue performing at the highest level until his move away.
“I don’t think anybody likes it. He gives everybody confidence in the dressing room. He is a unique character and plays on an outstanding level. He sometimes takes the focus towards him, he loves responsibility.
“Nobody likes this decision but we have to accept it. Like it or not there will be life at Chelsea after Toni. It is also the most important thing for us that it ends like it started, on the highest level.”
