Chelsea news: Thomas Tuchel urges his side to be 'realistic' and lower expectations for Lille clash
Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel and Hakim Ziyech
Chelsea may be the reigning champions of Europe, but Thomas Tuchel doesn't want his side to suffer from the resulting expectation.
After a remarkable first season under Tuchel, which saw Chelsea crowned champions of Europe, expectations have inevitably risen.
It's a pressure the Blues have so far dealt with this season, with Chelsea through to the League Cup final, in the top four of the Premier League, and still defending their Champions League title.
Recent success in the Club World Cup has already seen them lift silverware this season, but with the business end of the season fast approaching, Tuchel is keen to see his side dampen expectations.
Speaking ahead of Chelsea's trip to Lille this week, Tuchel said "I think it is very important for us in this moment to be realistic and not over-expect from us.
"To also accept games against teams in mid-table or the lower end of the table can become difficult games. Once we accept that, it is the first step to feel a certain freedom and to become better, that we don't over-expect.
"We should not expect too much about how big others see us and if we are the favourites against Lille, just accept it is a phase where things feel a bit tight and a bit more difficult than in other times.
Tuesday's game will be another quick turnaround for Chelsea, who have suffered through a tricky fixture list over the past few weeks.
Last in action on Saturday for the 1-0 win over Crystal Palace, the Blues will have just three days rest before returning to the pitch.
As always, thank you Blues! ?#CryChe pic.twitter.com/OBz1uPRfZq
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) February 19, 2022
Lille have had an extra day of preparation, with the French side's last game being their goalless draw against Metz on Friday.
However, Tuchel refused to use the scheduling as an excuse, and remains confident that his side can continue their impressive performances in knock-out matches.
"We will accept it and this is the situation for the match on Tuesday. First of all we play at Stamford Bridge and we are confident to have a good performance because we deliver on a high level in knock-out matches, cup matches, Champions League matches.
"I think that Saturday to Tuesday evening for us as a home game and playing in London should not be a problem.
"Sometimes it can cause a big advantage if there is a tight schedule.
"But we will be ready to fight with Lille on an OK level so that should not be decisive."
