Maurizio Sarri opens up on his conflicted relationship with Chelsea players

Maurizio Sarri opens up on his conflicted relationship with Chelsea players during his tumultuous one season reign at Stamford Bridge.

Maurizio Sarri had a rather successful stint at West London with Chelsea. The Italian ensured Chelsea’s qualification to the Champions League by guiding them to Europa League glory over Arsenal in the final. He also helped them to a third-place finish in the Premier League.

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However, the journey wasn’t smooth sailing. In his own words, he had a conflicted relationship with his players evidenced by his very public falling out with Kepa Arrizabalaga during the Carabao Cup Final. However, he insists that the players eventually learned to appreciate him.

Maurizio Sarri opens up on his conflicted relationship with Chelsea players

Speaking to Juventus’ official YouTube channel via video link, Sarri spoke of his time at Stamford Bridge.

“I had a conflicted relationship with the Chelsea dressing room but, when I told them I’d be leaving, many of them cried,” he said.

“I’m not so much a person who pats others on the back. I talk a lot about what they do wrong and less about the good things they do.

“I think that has a big impact, but then they learn to appreciate you for who you are. The longest relationships are with the lads I played least, so I think they recognise something once they absorb your character.”

When asked if he misses England, Sarri replied:

“I would never live there [again], I don’t understand how the Italians who are there do it.

“As for the football, it’s a different story. I miss the Premier League. It has an extraordinary technical level and an incredible atmosphere.”

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