In spite of growing alarm behind the scenes about results, Frank Lampard might be given time to prove he deserves to remain in his place as Chelsea’s boss.
When they lost 3-1 at home to Manchester City on Sunday, Chelsea’s faltering title bid suffered another setback. It has now placed Lampard in danger of being sacked before the end of his second season.
It is unlikely that the humiliating loss by City would result in the 42-year-old being fired. As a possible replacement, Tuchel has been put forward. Tuchel led Paris Saint-Germain to the Champions League final last season before being sacked by the French champions last month.
Following a run of four losses in six games, the burden on Lampard has increased. It has left the board increasingly worried about the team’s lack of success this season. The owner, Roman Abramovich, gave Lampard over £ 200m to spend on signings last summer. After 17 games, Chelsea lie in eighth place. They are seven points behind Liverpool in first position and face a battle to finish in the top four unless their form improves.
Lampard, whose deal runs out in the summer of2022, is thought to have maintained Chelsea’s backing for now. The club, mindful of its iconic status at Stamford Bridge, would prefer not to behave in hurry. Chelsea’s approach was exposed by City. And it is understood that some within the dressing room believe the team does not have a clear identity under Lampard. Lampard even criticized his players in public after the Boxing Day defeat against Arsenal.
After replacing Maurizio Sarri in the summer of2019, Lampard did well. He had a transfer ban to qualify for the Champions League and reach the finals of the FA Cup. He also received praise for supporting Chelsea’s young players.
