Petr Cech has suggested that he’s already moved on from Chelsea’s second ever Champions League win as preparations for next season start to gather pace.
The legendary goalkeeper - who famously saved a penalty in extra-time against Bayern Munich in the 2012 final to help Chelsea on their way to their first triumph in the competition - is now the Blues’ technical director and has made it clear that he cannot dwell on the club’s recent European success.
Speaking on the BBC ahead of the Czech Republic’s game against Croatia in Group D of Euro 2020, Cech said:
“I think I’m back down to earth because once you have the trophy, it’s all nice and you really enjoy the time but then you realise the new season is about to start and then my work starts.”
Although Chelsea haven’t yet confirmed their pre-season schedule, it’s likely to be a busy one, especially considering Thomas Tuchel’s side have the chance to win another trophy before the season even begins when they face Villarreal for the UEFA Super Cup on 11 August.
Chelsea also have a number of players at the Euros, many of whom could go all the way to the final. Thus, whoever does make it that far in the competition will need an additional break before returning to west London, and that juggling act is problematic for Cech.
“We have 17 players at the Euros and we have to prepare for the pre-season, this is the juggling now,” he added.
It’s a shame that the club cannot afford to celebrate their European triumph for too long, but it’s a necessary sacrifice, as Tuchel - and of course Cech - prepare to make Chelsea title challengers once again.
