Timo Werner makes honest Thomas Tuchel admission after departure from 'special' Chelsea

Former Chelsea striker Timo Werner has opened up on his departure, discussing the role of Thomas Tuchel and admitting that the Blues will always be special to him.

Leaving earlier this month, Werner returned to RB Leipzig after two seasons at Stamford Bridge, where he won the UEFA Champions League, Super Cup and Club World Cup.

The German became somewhat of a fan favourite, despite failing to live up to his reputation from his time in the Bundesliga.

Playing a crucial role in Chelsea’s Champions League triumph under Tuchel, Werner expected a more vital role in the German’s plans going forward but the 2021/22 season saw the forward make just 37 appearances.

With the signing of Raheem Sterling, Werner made a return to Leipzig on a permanent deal, with Tuchel giving his blessing for the player to leave.

Werner was spotted at Chelsea’s fixture against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday as he said his goodbye to his former teammates despite already playing his first match back in Leipzig on the same weekend.

Speaking to German media, Werner has now opened up on his time at Chelsea and made an honest admission regarding his departure.

In an interview with Sport1, Werner told the outlet that he associates his time at Chelsea with success and that the club will remain special to him.

 "I really associate Chelsea with great successes - the greatest of my career,” he admitted. 

“It will always be a special club for me.

"I will also stay in contact with many players from the team.”

Werner struck up strong bonds and friendships within the Chelsea squad with national teammates Antonio Rudiger and Kai Havertz, with the trio hoping to link up once more for their national team during the World Cup after Rudiger also departed this summer.

Werner continued to discuss his relationship with Tuchel, with it believed that the pair fell out towards the end of Werner’s time at Stamford Bridge.

However, the forward refused to criticise the head coach despite a lack of game time.

Discussing the system at Chelsea, Werner continued: "I think the coach's game system didn't suit me perfectly. 

“So it was clear to me that I wanted to take a new step. I'm at an age where I want to play as much as I can."

Werner scored on his first appearance back in the Bundesliga and will be hoping to start well back in Germany ahead of the World Cup this year.