Undefeated In 7 Matches, Tuchel Considers His Match Against Atletico A Mental Test For Chelsea

JAKARTA - Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel considers the Champions League last 16 first leg match against La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid as a big test of his team's mental strength.

Chelsea are unbeaten in seven matches in all competitions since Tuchel was appointed replacement manager for club legend Frank Lampard.

Tuchel stated that the London club will be in their best condition against Diego Simeone's side later.

Here's our confirmed squad for this week's @ChampionsLeague trip! 👊🔵 # ATMCHE

- Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) February 22, 2021

"This is a big test. They are an experienced club at this level, have experienced coaches. Hopefully that will encourage us to do our best," Tuchel said at a press conference Monday.

"We will play our way, they will play their way. Obviously what you get when you face Atletico, a fighting and experienced team with a good mentality."

Tuchel will be without experienced defender Thiago Silva as the Brazilian is recovering from injury, but midfielder Kai Havertz and striker Christian Pulisic are ready to deploy.

. @ ChampionsLeague pic.twitter.com/aQ0MCzlxwp

- Kai Havertz (@ kaihavertz29) February 22, 2021

Atletico were supposed to host Chelsea in Madrid but were later transferred to the National Arena in Romania because Spain has prohibited entry to flights from the UK, except for passengers who live or are citizens of Spain or Andorra, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Yes, it's really bad luck for Atletico to lose his home game," continued Tuchel.

Tuchel pulled out Callum Hudson-Odoi after bringing in the England international as a substitute in the 1-1 draw against Southampton last Saturday. But Tuchel said the player would fly to Bucharest in Romania.

👉🇷🇴 The Blues are Bucharest-bound! #ATMCHE pic.twitter.com/e5ObM5SEsO

- Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) February 22, 2021

"We have decided to speak with him in front of the team. Is this the right decision? I don't know. We did it in front of the team because it was not a big deal," said Tuchel of his decision during the match against Southampton.