It’s official. Thomas Tuchel has replaced Julian Nagelsmann at Bayern Munich and with that, the most shocking managerial sackings in recent times is over. Tuchel, in his introductory press conference, was glowing in his praise for the club. However, his one statement piqued the interest of people. Thomas Tuchel’s regular backroom staff is back but he confirmed he’s trying to bring Anthony Barry from Chelsea.
Tuchel: "My coaching staff wasn't prepared either, so a big thank you to their families for their flexibility. Arno Michels and Zsolt Löw, who have been working with me for over ten years, will be there. We're hoping to add Anthony Barry, who is currently at Chelsea." pic.twitter.com/ZQyPcZcQZ7
— Bayern & Germany (@iMiaSanMia) March 25, 2023
So, who is Anthony Barry, and why does Tuchel rate him so highly? Here’s all you need to know.
Anthony Barry- A highly-rated coach
After an extensive playing career in English lower divisions, Barry became prominent when he became the youngest first-team coach in the country as he assisted Paul Cook’s brilliant Wigan side. Anthony Barry joined Chelsea’s first-team setup in the summer of 2020. He later combined his club role with a job at international sides, being a part of the backroom staff at Ireland, Belgium, and currently Portugal.
Barry is now an assistant coach at Chelsea as well as Portugal. Frank Lampard gave him his first shot at being an assistant, and Thomas Tuchel retained him in a huge vote of confidence. Tuchel has his trusted circle of staff, including Zsolt Low and Arno Michels. For Anthony Barry to have cracked their inner circle speaks volumes of his tactical aptitude.
Also read: Facts about Thomas Tuchel you need to know!
He was widely regarded as one of the crucial brains of Frank Lampard’s era. Now a crucial member of Graham Potter’s staff, it would be interesting to see if Barry can be convinced by Tuchel to leave his surroundings for an intense Bayern Munich environment.
Also read: Why did Bayern Munich sack Julian Nagelsmann?
At just 36 years old, he can prove to be an astute signing to bridge the communication gap to the players as he has been renowned for his man-management ability. Thomas Tuchel has gained a reputation for being a hard taskmaster, so Anthony Barry’s communication skills, combined with his tactical nous would make him an ideal foil for the German manager.