Brighton and Hove Albion star Pascal Groß has admitted the squad were surprised by Graham Potter’s move to Chelsea and questioned whether he will be able to handle the big stars at Stamford Bridge.
Potter was announced as the new Chelsea boss earlier this month following Thomas Tuchel’s surprise sacking.
The German was a firm fan favourite at Stamford Bridge following a spell that had seen them win the Champions League and reach two cup finals last season.
A slow start to this season, though, and defeat to Dinamo Zagreb in the Champions League had left him in a perilous position and new owner Todd Boehly elected for change.
He immediately targeted Potter, who he had reportedly become aware of during discussions about the summer transfer of Marc Cucurella from Brighton to Chelsea.
A move was wrapped up quickly and represents the first huge job of Potter’s managerial career following spells with Ostersund, Swansea and Brighton.
Chelsea are a significantly bigger beast to deal with than those clubs and Groß has questioned whether his former boss will be able to deal with that.
“It was a surprise for us. It all happened very quickly,” he told Sport 1.
“Within one or two days Graham was no longer our coach. We were already aware that the day would come at some point, and he would accept an offer from an absolute top club.
“It certainly won’t be easy. But I have a lot of confidence in Graham. He is a top coach who is very good at tactics and interpersonal skills.
“But of course, it’s a whole new level at Chelsea. Only the bare results count. People get restless more quickly.
“I’m curious to see how Graham deals with all the stars. I’m keeping my fingers crossed for him in his new job.”
