Tuchel's damning assessment of Chelsea's draw at Zenit
Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel has insisted that no player is bigger than the club as Antonio Rudiger's contract saga continues. Questions rumble on whether Chelsea will lose their star centre-back on a free transfer next summer, and Tuchel has provided the latest.
Thomas Tuchel has no updates on Antonio Rudiger's Chelsea contract. (Image: GETTY)
When asked for an update on Rudiger's contract situation, Tuchel acknowledged his importance but suggested Chelsea won't pay over the odds to tempt him to stay beyond next summer.
He told reporters: "We absolutely accept and are fully aware of the importance of Toni and the role that he's playing on and off the pitch.
"There is no doubt about that. It's true that nobody is bigger than the club, and this is a team effort and a strong club.
"It's not only about Toni, and I mean that in the best way because we know what he's doing and we're fully aware of it. In the end, we need a bit of patience. I have no update right now."
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Rudiger has been the subject of criticism in recent weeks as Chelsea's form has slipped.
The Blues have uncharacteristically conceded eight goals in their last four games, slipping to third in the league behind Manchester City and Liverpool.
But Tuchel has played down talk that Rudiger's performance levels have dipped, despite resting him as Chelsea surrendered their Champions League Group H top spot at Zenit St. Petersburg.
Thomas Tuchel could lose three first-team centre-backs next summer. (Image: GETTY)