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6th April 2023
02:42pm BST
Thomas Tuchel has warned Frank Lampard of Carlo Ancelotti's friendly relationship with the officials ahead of Chelsea's Champions League showdown against Real Madrid.
Lampard returned to the club on Thursday in a caretaker position until the end of the season, replacing Graham Potter who was sacked last week, as Todd Boehly prepares to take his time over appointing a long-term successor.
The Chelsea legend returns for his second stint in the Stamford Bridge dugout and is tasked with restoring some pride in an otherwise difficult season at the two-time European champions and managing a bloated squad.
Additionally, Lampard also faces the prospect of reigning Champions League holders Real Madrid in the quarter finals and are firm underdogs.
Both teams met at the same stage last season as Los Blancos recovered from going behind to beating the Blues 4-3 on aggregate, with Karim Benzema scoring the winner in extra time.
Tuchel was critical of referee Szymon Marciniak that night, citing his interaction with Ancelotti at full time and in his post-match interview. sent a warning to anyone who faces the Italian again.
He said: "I was disappointed that the referee had a good time with Carlo. When I wanted to go and say thank you, he was smiling and laughing with the opponent's coach.
"When you go and see a referee smiling and laughing with the other coach, it's bad timing. I told him this.
"[It's] not only today. When you play against Real Madrid, maybe you don't expect everyone has the courage."
Chelsea's first game of Lampard's second stint is against Wolves on Saturday.
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