Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel has demanded a better Stamford Bridge atmosphere ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League quarter-final first-leg match against Real Madrid.
The Blues suffered a 4-1 defeat to Brentford on Saturday after a shocking defensive performance in the second half.
Tuchel himself admitted that the loss was an undesirable reminder for his team ahead of the big game against Real Madrid this week.
However, he also highlighted that the lack of energy inside the stadium did not help.
“It was a bit bizarre,” the German told Chelsea TV after the weekend’s defeat.
“I have to say we need a better atmosphere against Real Madrid.
“In the first half, it was like a friendly match, and it felt like it.”
There might have been a number of reasons behind what Tuchel described as a “bizarre” atmosphere at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.
The uncertainty around the club’s ownership, the fact that some of the fans spent hours protesting outside the stadium, and ticket restrictions are just a few possible factors.
Fortunately for Chelsea, the revised government licence they are currently operating under will allow the fans, including non-season ticket holders, to attend the cup tie.
The Blues beat Real Madrid in a comfortable 2-0 win in an empty stadium last year, so hopefully, a fully packed Stamford Bridge will motivate the team even more.
Keep up to date with all the latest Chelsea news and opinion by following The Chelsea Chronicle’s Facebook and Twitter accounts.
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox
