Middlesbrough boss Chris Wilder has spoken very highly of his opposite number Thomas Tuchel ahead of the FA Cup tie against Chelsea.
Championship underdogs Boro host Chelsea tomorrow evening in the FA Cup quarter-finals.
Boro have beaten both Manchester United and Tottenham already in this season’s FA Cup campaign, but it’s another step up on Saturday by facing the team third in the Premier League.
Chelsea, who were drawn against Real Madrid today in the Champions League quarter-finals, are in excellent form.
The Blues are dealing with so much off-field activity in their search for a change of ownership, which makes it even more impressive how they are performing so consistently on the pitch.
Wilder has been extremely complimentary of Chelsea manager Tuchel as he prepares for a tactical battle against him. In particular, he recalls a previous meeting with him last season.
“I don’t want to disrespect Chelsea, they did great things during Covid. Thomas has conducted himself amazingly this week – it’s been no surprise. I met him last season after a match and he spent 45 mins in the office chatting with my staff. That’s unique. World class operator,” Wilder said.
Best since Mourinho
It may be a tad controversial, but Tuchel is the best Chelsea manager since Jose Mourinho.
The Blues have employed so many different managers during the Roman Abramovich era.
Antonio Conte, who won a Premier League and FA Cup in his spell as Chelsea manager, belongs in the heart of the conversation that debates the club’s best bosses of the 21st century.
The way Tuchel’s performed during just over a year has been incredible, though.
He’s already won the Champions League, and has an exciting young group that are mixing it with the best during unprecedented circumstances.
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