Chelsea have confirmed the appointment of Graham Potter as their new head coach on a five-year contract.
The 47-year-old succeeds Thomas Tuchel after the German was fired on Wednesday morning by the Chelsea hierarchy as they looked for a new boss to lead the new era at Stamford Bridge.
Permission was granted by Brighton and talks commenced swiftly in London with Chelsea over the vacancy and Potter quickly accepted the terms after he met with Todd Boehly after being impressed with the long-term vision.
Advert
Potter has been appointed by the club in time for their Premier League match against Fulham at Craven Cottage on Saturday lunchtime.
The club confirmed his arrival on a five-year deal, signing from Premier League side Brighton.
Speaking after the move, Potter said: "I am incredibly proud and excited to represent Chelsea FC, this fantastic football club.
Advert
"I am very excited to partner with Chelsea’s new ownership group and look forward to meeting and working with the exciting group of players and to develop a team and culture that our amazing fans can be proud of.
"I would also like to place my sincere thanks to Brighton & Hove Albion for allowing me this opportunity and in particular Tony Bloom and all the players, staff and supporters for their continued support during my time at the club."
Chelsea chairman and co-owner Todd Boehly added to this, revealing his excitement as he said: "We are thrilled to bring Graham to Chelsea. He is a proven coach and an innovator in the Premier League who fits our vision for the Club.
Advert
"Not only is he extremely talented on the pitch, he has skills and capabilities that extend beyond the pitch which will make Chelsea a more successful Club.
"He has had a major impact at his previous Clubs’ and we look forward to his positive impact at Chelsea.
"We look forward to supporting him, his coaching team and the squad in realising their full potential in the coming months and years."
Advert
Behdad Eghbali and José E. Feliciano, co-controlling owners concluded by discussing the reasoning for bringing Potter to Stamford Bridge.
They wrote: "Graham is a football innovator and winner on the pitch and a leader off the pitch.
"He has deeply impressed us with his ideas and approach to football.
"We are thrilled to partner with Graham to build a winning team, one that embodies the culture of collaboration, innovation, teamwork, player development, and a commitment to excellence on and off the pitch. We are fortunate to have Graham and his team as our partners in that journey."
Advert
Potter will face Fulham on his first match in charge of Chelsea.
The London debut awaits as he succeds Tuchel at Stamford Bridge.
Topics: Chelsea, Premier League, Football
Matthew Debono