A Chelsea star has insisted that he and his teammates are also to blame for Thomas Tuchel's sudden dismissal last week.
The German tactician was surprisingly dismissed by the Blues just seven games into the 2022/23 campaign after a mixed start to the season.
While Tuchel led the club to the 2020/21 UEFA Champions League title, his team struggled to progress from there and launch a Premier League title bid in the following campaign.
Read: Conte fires warning to goalless Son
There were reportedly some off-field issues too, with reports suggesting the manager had upset some members of the squad with the way he treated them, which was said to have created a tense atmosphere in the changing room during his last days with the Blues.
After Tuchel was relieved of his duties, new co-owner Todd Boehly hired Graham Potter as his replacement, reportedly paying Brighton Hove Albion £20 million (R402 million) in compensation in order to sign the Englishman, his assistant Billy Reid, first-team coaches Bjorn Hamberg and Bruno, and head of recruitment Kyle Macaulay.
With the new coach set to start his Chelsea tenure against Red Bull Salzburg in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday night, Blues midfielder Jorginho has now insisted the players were also to blame for Tuchel's sacking.
"Of course, we had a great time with Thomas and appreciate what he does for us, the fans and everyone," the Italy star said at a news conference ahead of their UCL tie, per ESPN.
"It [his dismissal] was a surprise for everyone. What has been said between the players will stay there, sorry.
"Of course [the players are also responsible], we are a team. It is not one person responsible for what happened.
"We are the team as a group on the pitch, so of course, we are responsible for what happened.
Read: Man Utd to make surprise imminent signing?
"We tried to do what we could and where it could go better. Unfortunately, it wasn't working.
"The challenge now is to rebuild confidence."
You must be SIGNED IN to read and post comments.
Click here to register: https://www.snl24.com/auth/signin