Welcome home, Thomas Tuchel: Chelsea plan ahead for reunion with legendary manager after taking England job

Chelsea dismissed Tuchel during the early months of BlueCo's ownership after they were embroiled in several disagreements and following a shaky start to the campaign in 2022-23. Despite the unceremonious exit, the Blues are ready to bury the past and show their appreciation for his past contributions, notably their 2021 Champions League triumph, when he returns to west London in a different capacity, according to The Telegraph.

Chelsea's American ownership are said to take great pride in players representing their national teams. They are reportedly supportive of Tuchel’s quest to lead England to glory in the 2026 World Cup and are willing to assist him in any way possible way. The Blues hope that their cooperation is expected to benefit Chelsea players such as Cole Palmer, who will be aiming for regular call-ups to the national team under Tuchel. Moreover, most Premier League clubs often have a specific reserved seat at their stadium for whoever the England manager is.

Tuchel has brought aboard former Chelsea assistant Anthony Barry to his backroom staff and has reportedly expressed interest in bringing more familiar Stamford Bridge faces to his England setup. It is said he also wants to recruit Henrique Hilario, Chelsea's current goalkeeping coach, to his England team. However, Chelsea will not allow him to split his duties between the club and the national team. The Blues are only open to Hilario taking a full-time role with England if he leaves his position at Chelsea entirely. Meanwhile, James Melbourne, who was the head of performance analysis at Chelsea, has left his post and is also tipped to reunite with Tuchel.

Interim manager Lee Carsley will remain in charge of England for the upcoming Nations League matches against Greece and the Republic of Ireland next month before Tuchel takes up his role in the new year.