The announcement of the sacking of Antonio Conte took so long that football fans all over the world started to doubt it. The fiery Italian had been expected to be relieved of his duties by the Stamford Bridge hierarchy, but resumed pre-season amid talks of a standoff between him and his employers.
The former Juventus manager had won two trophies in two years, but what led to his sacking was the propensity to denigrate his players and employers during press conferences. Conte revolutionized the three-at-the-back system in England but left after burning too many bridges.
His replacement, the chain-smoking Maurizio Sarri was described last season by Pep Guardiola as the best tactical manager he faced all year, which is high praise coming from a man who is regarded as the best tactical mind in the game.
? Pep Guardiola on Maurizio Sarri:
“They (Napoli) have a big ability to make short passes. It is one of best teams I ever faced as a professional.” @ChloeJBeresford looks at the latest Italian to take charge of Chelsea ??
READ: https://t.co/u8Qc3LIzKd pic.twitter.com/JEwxoT9oMM
— The Sack Race (@thesackrace) July 14, 2018
Sarri has signed a three-year contract with the West London outfit, but what makes Chelsea fans excited is his style of football. The Blues fans fell in love with Antonio Conte for his passionate methods of coaching and the manner in which he celebrated goals with them means that he will forever be adored by the Stamford Bridge faithful.
The appointment of Maurizio Sarri is uncharted waters for Chelsea, as the maverick Italian comes with a playing style that has been termed SarriBall, a difficult yet enchanting, bewitching style of play that will make tickets for games at The Bridge almost as valuable as gold. While some will point to the fact that he has no managerial honours in his career, the prospect of seeing Willian and Eden Hazard playing under Sarri is one that Chelsea fans can’t wait for.
Chelsea have had wonderful managers in the past that have proven to be successful but the one style of play they crave is one in which their players will be free of defensive shackles and play to their devastating attacking best. The players will need some time getting used to Sarri ball, but when they click, they can match City for pretty football news today. Win with it, and Sarri will have a new chant.