Thomas Tuchel says that a “serious situation” played out between Kepa Arrizabalaga and Antonio Rudiger during training on Sunday.
Reports had circulated of an altercation between both men leading to Rudiger being sent in early from the session. Tuchel has now admitted that “things got heated”, though the pair had patched things up swiftly afterwards.
The incident occurred the day after Chelsea’s shock 5-2 loss to West Brom, though the manager insisted that had nothing to do with the exchange.
“We needed to interfere in the situation, so that was serious,” Tuchel said on Tuesday.
“They cleared the air immediately and there was nothing left the day after.”
“It got heated up between Toni and Kepa, so we calmed the situation down immediately.
“The reaction was not OK. But how the guys handled the situation, especially Toni and Kepa, was amazing and showed how much respect they have for each other.”
Tuchel clarified that neither would be punished for their actions after the players “immediately sorted it out” amongst themselves.
“They sorted it out straight after training in a very honest, humble and very direct way,” Tuchel added.
“That showed me they have very good character. Toni sorted it out directly, and it was a strong and brave thing to do.”
Defeat to West Brom brought to an end a 14-match unbeaten run since Tuchel took over at the club.
Chelsea will face Porto on Wednesday in the Champions League quarter-finals.
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