Thomas Tuchel has credited Chelsea's club hierarchy for providing the platform for his success after being named Best FIFA Men's Coach 2021. The German head coach received the award at a ceremony in Switzerland on Monday evening, with Emma Hayes also winning the women's award for Chelsea.
Tuchel led Chelsea to their second Champions League title in Porto last May, followed by the UEFA Super Cup victory over Villarreal. Speaking after the ceremony, he highlighted the importance of the club's support: 'The company here, the support in the club from day one has been outstanding. I feel like I can be the best version of myself. I’ve been trusted, supported, and this you can never ever underestimate.'
The 48-year-old acknowledged the role of mentality and work ethic in his success, stating: 'It’s a strong club. I have a strong team, and the luck that it’s a good fit in terms of mentality, work ethic... The journey itself matters but it’s much more important the company on the journey.'
Tuchel's side will seek a third trophy later this month at the Club World Cup in Abu Dhabi. 'We will arrive very determined to win it,' he said. 'You never know how many chances in your life you get to win a title like this.'
Hayes praised Tuchel's fit at Chelsea, saying: 'The minute he came to Chelsea, I knew he was born for Chelsea. He knows what it is to be the manager of Chelsea and not many of us get that privilege.'
