Chelsea reluctant to sanction Barry move to Bayern Munich ahead of potential Champions League clash – Potter

Graham Potter won’t block Anthony Barry’s transfer to Bayern Munich but has revealed Chelsea are trying to delay him after a possible Champions League semi-final against the Bundesliga club.

Former Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel has asked Barry to join his new backroom staff at Bayern Munich after being named head coach last week.
Barry, who has been coaching Chelsea since 2020 and formed a relationship with Tuchel during his tenure at Stamford Bridge between 2021 and 2022, has told the west London club he wants to move to Germany.

Barry has agreed to stay away from the training ground as talks between the two clubs continue. They have yet to agree on pay terms or when Barry will be appointed.

Potter accepted Barry’s decision to leave, saying, “Of course I spoke to Anthony. I would like the conversation to be private. He is someone I respect a lot, he gave everything to Chelsea. He’s been a good staff member, he’s a great guy. I also understand that human beings have lives, families, aspirations so it’s about respecting that.

“Antony is in discussions, the clubs are in discussions at the moment around his situation. So he’s not with us at the moment, I think that’s the best thing while this resolves. For the moment nothing to report between the two clubs.

“I don’t know (how long it will take), I have no idea. It’s not something I’m involved in. I have huge respect for Anthony and what he has done here.

“He’s a fantastic coach, a fantastic person. These things happen in life, in football. We have very good staff here who can replace and fill the void. I’ve always said there’s no no direct replacement for anyone, but that the collective can solve the problem.

The added complication is that Chelsea could face Bayern Munich in May if both clubs win their respective Champions League quarter-finals. Potter’s side have a draw against Real Madrid, while Bayern Munich take on Manchester City. The winners will then meet in the last four.

Asked by Athleticism on whether he would prefer Barry not to join before then due to the risk of him giving Bayern tactical advice on Chelsea, Potter added: “It’s something I’m pretty sure he’s in the conversation for obvious reasons.”

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