Frank Lampard's Shocking Revelation: The Real Reason Behind Chelsea's Lack of Spirit and His Target for Transformation

Frank Lampard delivered a scathing assessment of his second stint at Chelsea and disclosed his past attempts to secure the services of Declan Rice during an interview with the Diary of a CEO Podcast. Taking the reins as an interim manager for the last 11 matches of the previous season, the revered former player managed only a solitary victory as the club stumbled to its lowest league placement in nearly 30 years.

Lampard frequently alluded to the subpar quality of the team when addressing the media prior to and following games throughout his seven-week tenure at Stamford Bridge. This occurred towards the end of a season in which newly appointed owner, Todd Boehly, had already dismissed Thomas Tuchel and subsequently Graham Potter, whilst expanding Chelsea's squad to such an extent that a number of players were excluded from the Champions League squad.

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During the latest podcast episode, host Steven Bartlett discussed with Lampard the main issues he experienced during his second tenure as the club's manager. Lampard acknowledged that he was aware of the standards at the club, having previously been involved as both a coach and player. He emphasized that his comments were not a direct criticism of the players, as he recognized the difficult circumstances they had endured throughout the season. Lampard took over with only 10 games remaining, while the players had been there the entire season. Despite this, he felt there was little he could have done differently, despite finishing with a win percentage lower than 10 per cent.

Many players were not actively participating and appeared likely to depart, as we can now witness. Even during training sessions, the overall performance level was inadequate. It fell short not only in terms of competing against teams like Brentford at home, but also against formidable opponents like Real Madrid. Establishing a winning culture necessitates adhering to fundamental benchmarks.

Upon my arrival, it was evident that there was a lack of team spirit and unity. It wasn't a negative situation that hindered progress throughout the week, but in order to become elite, one must train at an elite level. It is an essential requirement.

"The squad's size was the most notable aspect. It's akin to requesting someone to do all the preparation work and then having another person actually carry out the task, especially when it comes to the motivation of players who are not going to participate or have been left out of the Champions League squad."

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Chelsea picked up only five points from nine Premier League matches under Lampard last season

I had a brief period to try, but upon observation, it gives the impression of a player who has been out of the game for a long time and is now struggling to remain competitive against the leading player. Consequently, the other player is likely feeling quite at ease. During my tenure at Chelsea as a player, we didn't fully appreciate the significance of this competition.

The interim period was so unusual and detached from my previous experiences that I am unable to compare it by speculating whether initiating a cultural discussion on day one or adjusting my tactics in a particular game would have made a difference.

Lampard's return came to a disappointing end, marking the end of a season filled with underachievement at Stamford Bridge. This happened less than two years after Chelsea's triumph in the 2021 Champions League. When asked about the reasons behind the downfall, Lampard chose not to elaborate but hinted to Bartlett that the club's recruitment strategy had been unfavorable when he took charge in April. He also revealed his previous desire to sign Declan Rice, who is now bound for Arsenal.

Chelsea emerged victorious in the Champions League shortly after my departure. Subsequently, one begins to wonder about the next step, contemplating what strategies will prove fruitful, and perhaps reflecting on the departure of certain players during that time and the aspiration to recruit individuals who would shape the club's future.

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Delcan Rice is close to moving to Arsenal from West Ham for a record transfer fee for a British player

During my previous stint at Chelsea, I had expressed my desire to bring in Declan Rice and even stated that he would serve as the club's captain for the next decade. Although it didn't come to fruition, I find it challenging to critique the decisions made by others during the period when I wasn't part of the club. The circumstances I encountered upon returning were unforeseen, and it would be improper for me to suggest what could have been done differently.

The 45-year-old, who currently has no eagerness to resume his role as a football manager, did offer encouragement for the club's future under the new head coach, Mauricio Pochettino. He also expressed optimism regarding Boehly's ownership despite a difficult start to their time in West London.

He stated that the ownership now comprehends the importance of having a squad consisting of 30 players, as evidenced by the departures that have already occurred. The owners provided him with a chance to join the club, and he had a positive relationship with them.

Furthermore, the owners aspire to make the club the best, and with a fresh voice and manager, the younger players will now have a better opportunity to showcase their abilities. It is understandable that bringing in five, six, or seven players during a challenging period for the club may result in difficulties in immediately adapting and performing at their best.

"As a Chelsea supporter, it's important to recognize the positive aspects, such as the talented players in the squad and the ongoing efforts to trim it down. Promising individuals like Enzo Fernandez, Mikhaylo Mudryk, and Noni Madueke have the potential to develop into significant contributors for the club. Moving forward, it is crucial to establish the right structure and strategy.

At times, due to various factors, there may be a transition, such as a change in ownership. Having been a fan before their arrival, I have observed a lack of consistency in winning Premier League titles and a diminished challenge in recent years."