"There's inevitably been speculation" - Fabrizio Romano provides crucial Chelsea update after ex-Bayern Munich manager is spotted at Stamford Bridge

Fabrizio Romano, a transfer analyst, has commented on rumors that former Bayern Munich manager Hansi Flick may be hired by Chelsea. The manager of the Germany national team was sighted at Stamford Bridge on Friday, where the Blues and Fulham played to a scoreless draw (February 3).

Following Flick's attendance at the team's stadium, rumors have grown that he would replace Graham Potter as the Blues' manager. The Blues have had a challenging first season under Potter; they are currently ninth in the league and ten points behind fourth-place Newcastle United.

The Premier League club and the Germany coach have not been in communication, according to Romano. Despite Die Mannschaft's unsuccessful 2022 FIFA World Cup campaign, Flick has only lately stated his plans to remain as coach  in Qatar. Romano said (via Simon Phillips):

"Hansi Flick was spotted at Stamford Bridge, so there’s inevitably been speculation about the Chelsea job. However, Flick has just committed to the Germany job until the Euros, and this is his full focus. I’m not aware of any conversation with Chelsea.”

Bayern & Germany

Flick succeeded Joachim Low as Germany's manager in 2021, overseeing 19 games, winning 11 and drawing two. However, his side's underwhelming campaign at the 2022 FIFA World Cup led to speculation that he may depart. They exited the competition in the group stage, missing out on a place in the last 16 after finishing behind Spain and Japan.

The German coach enjoyed a brilliant spell at Bayern Munich before that. He led the Bavarians to the UEFA Champions League in 2020 and the Bundesliga twice, in 2020 and 2021. The German giants won 70 of 86 games with Flick in charge.

Chelsea seem to be backing Potter for now despite their alarmingly poor season under him. They handed the English tactician a six-year contract in September and have spent over £400 million since his appointment.