Thomas Tuchel has confirmed that he only heard about Roman Abramovich's decision to put Chelsea up for sale when kick-off in their FA Cup tie with Luton was "very close".
Abramovich released a statement just over an hour before the game kicked off confirming that previous reports were true and that he would be looking to sell the club.
Chelsea still battled to victory but were made to come from behind twice to beat the Hatters at Kenilworth Road and book their place in the quarter-finals. Saul Niguez, Timo Werner and Romelu Lukaku all finding the net.
After the game, Tuchel was questioned on the decision of Abramovich, when he first heard of the decision and what it could mean for his side.
"Maybe I heard it a little bit earlier than you but still it was very close to kick-off," Tuchel told the BBC.
"But we heard the rumours throughout the day and on TV. When we have team meetings and we eat together, the guys talk about it, everybody talks about it.
"It is big news. Let's wait and see and hope for the best and see what the day brings.
"I think every decision he [Abramovich] takes is the right decision. It's his choice, it's his club. That's not on me to comment."
Earlier this week, Tuchel was visibly frustrated when was repeatedly asked about Abramovich's situation.
The Russian oligarch is expected to be caught up in sanctions imposed by the UK government because of his ties to Vladimir Putin, who is leading an invasion of Ukraine.
But he appeared much more calmed on this occasion when questioned but expressed hope that the impact on his side would be minimal.
"Very short term I think for us as staff and team and players, hopefully not too much," he said of any potential effects.
"But the situation is now out there and it's a big situation. But we try to cancel the noise and stay focused which is not always easy. But we showed again today that we are able to do it and try again on Saturday. "
"We're not living on an [remote] island, the guys have internet connections in the hotel and the TV is running so we see the news and we see the rumours and it's normal.
"Some are detached from it, some are perhaps more concerned. To play on the same day, a match where focus is absolutely key to win, it's not so easy. So it makes it a bigger performance and that's why I'm very happy."
