Chelsea are now searching for a new goalkeeping coach after Henrique Hilario, a long-serving figure at the club, officially resigned.
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After 18 years of dedicated service at Stamford Bridge, the Portuguese coach has decided to take up a similar position with the England national team, working under former Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel.
Reports indicate that the 49-year-old initially expressed interest in splitting his responsibilities between Chelsea and England, but the Blues rejected the proposal, leading to his departure.
Hilario’s connection with Chelsea dates back to 2006 when he joined the club as a player. The goalkeeper spent eight years in west London, retiring in 2014.
Two years later, he returned as an assistant goalkeeping coach under Antonio Conte. In 2018, Maurizio Sarri promoted him to the role of head goalkeeping coach, where he has remained until now.
With his departure, Hilario is expected to start a new chapter in his career, serving as goalkeeping coach for England as Tuchel begins his tenure as the country’s new permanent manager in January, replacing Gareth Southgate.
Speaking about his new role, Tuchel expressed his enthusiasm for the challenge ahead. “I am very proud to have been given the honour of leading the England team,” he said.
“I have long felt a personal connection to the game in this country, and it has given me some incredible moments already.”
He continued, “To have the chance to represent England is a huge privilege, and the opportunity to work with this special and talented group of players is very exciting.
Working closely with Anthony Barry as my assistant coach, we will do everything we can to make England successful and the supporters proud.”
Tuchel also acknowledged the trust placed in him by the FA, adding, “I want to thank the FA, in particular Mark and John, for their trust, and I am looking forward to starting our journey together.”
Hilario’s exit marks the end of an era at Chelsea, and the club will now need to find a replacement to fill the void left by his departure. For England, however, it signals the beginning of an exciting new phase under Tuchel’s leadership.
