According to a recent report by the Daily Mirror, Italian manager Maurizio Sarri is close to sealing a move to Juventus after winning the UEFA Europa League with Chelsea earlier this week. The same source has revealed that the Pensioners have agreed on his release with the Turin giants eager to appoint the Italian tactician as their new manager this summer.
The West London outfit has taken great strides under Sarri even though they have struggled to find consistency with their performances on the pitch. Furthermore, the Chelsea fans have not enjoyed ‘Sarri ball’ at Stamford Bridge thus far with the manager often being criticised for his blind faith on Jorginho who has been a central piece behind Sarri’s brand of football.
Thus, it might be best for all parties if the Italian leaves English football this summer, especially when considering the two-transfer window ban which Chelsea will have to serve out soon.
Let’s take a look at three ideal candidates to replace Sarri at Chelsea.
Frank Lampard
The former Chelsea midfielder is currently the favourite to succeed Sarri at the Bridge (via the Mirror). The Derby County boss had enjoyed a stellar season in the EFL Championship which unfortunately ended in heart-breaking fashion when the Rams lost to Aston Villa in the playoffs final.
Even though Lampard doesn’t have the experience or the managerial pedigree required to manage Chelsea, yet he has proven his worth in the recently concluded Championship season and knows the West London club from inside out. Thus he could be a worthy replacement for Sarri ahead of the new season.
Laurent Blanc
The French manager has enjoyed a long layoff from football management but could be available for a major European job this summer. Chelsea could try and persuade him to be Sarri’s successor as the 53-year-old has proven in the past that he can win trophies in domestic competitions.
However, Blanc has not enjoyed too much success in Europe, which will be a cause for concern.
Luciano Spalletti
The Italian coach is currently available after leaving his managerial post at Inter Milan. He has a wealth of experience in European football having managed clubs such as Inter, AS Roma and Zenit Saint Petersburg in the Champions League.
He is also a serial winner so the Pensioners should undoubtedly consider him for the managerial role in this offseason.
