Thomas Tuchel: “I would sign Karim Benzema”
Chelsea manager Tuchel gave his thoughts on his team’s quarter-final game against Real Madrid on Wednesday.
Ahead of Chelsea’s mouthwatering Champions League clash against Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid, Tuchel discussed several things, including the recent defeat to Brentford in the Premier League.
On the defeat to Brentford
“We haven’t had a special chat about it but it was a tough defeat, unusual, but now we’re focusing on our next objectives.”
On the missing Ancelotti
“It affects them but with new technology, he can continue to work. I hope he’s here tomorrow.”
The atmosphere at Stamford Bridge
“We need our fans. The fans are an important component and the energy that they transmit is crucial.”
Last season’s meeting between Chelsea and Madrid
“I haven’t seen last season’s game. We beat Madrid last season but it has nothing to do with this game.”
Which Real Madrid player would you like to sign?
“I would like to sign Benzema. He was one of the most underrated players in recent years, but what he has done in this latest spell and the responsibility he has taken on has been exceptional.”
Real Madrid and their Champions League winning ways
“It’s difficult to better their record. For us, it’s very special to play against Madrid tomorrow. It’s a very special occasion.”
Winning the Champions League again
“I’m not going to talk about the future. It’s hard but it’s what we like, the competition.”
Pulisic: ‘Maybe we needed the Brentford result’
USA international Christian Pulisic spoke about Chelsea’s defeat to Brentford at the weekend.
“Maybe it was the defeat we needed to be ready for Madrid. But we’ll move on with a lot of confidence,” he said.
On tiredness
“It’s difficult, with so many trips and so many games.”
On the current situation at Chelsea
“We have to be focused on the team. We hear a lot of things but we can only be focused on the Real Madrid game.”
His goal against Real Madrid last season gives confidence
“We have to be confident. It’s not going to be easy but given that we won last year we should be confident.”
On Azpilicueta
“He’s our captain. He does all the small things well. He doesn’t stop and gives us a lot of energy.”
Chelsea take on Real Madrid at Stamford Bridge tomorrow at 3:00 pm ET / 12:00 pm PT.