'Part of the therapy process!' - Graham Potter makes first return to Chelsea since 2023 sacking as ex-manager reveals 'happy memories'

Potter was dismissed after less than seven months at the helm of Chelsea in April 2023 and hasn't been back in management since then. Ahead of the Blues' clash with Arsenal on Sunday, the 49-year-old reflected on "happy memories" at Stamford Bridge.

He told Sky Sports: "Yeah, really good, first time I have been back. Happy memories here and some challenging ones but nevertheless a fantastic club and I am grateful for the opportunity I had to work here - it's a special place."

Potter joked returning to Stamford Bridge was "part of the therapy process" and that their run to the Champions League quarter-finals was a great source of pride for him.

Chelsea were 11th in the Premier League when Potter was sacked, having spent more than £550 million ($710m) on players that season. But many would acknowledge it was a turbulent time at the club. Now, however, the Blues are seemingly in a better place under head coach Enzo Maresca - although a crisis is seemingly never too far away at Chelsea.

While Potter looks to get back into management at some point, his old side Chelsea host London neighours Arsenal on Sunday afternoon in a battle between fifth and sixth respectively in the Premier League.