According to a recent report by the Times (via the Sun), former Real Madrid manager Julen Lopetegui is interested in the Chelsea managerial job if Maurizio Sarri leaves the club at the end of this campaign. Sarri has been recently linked with a move to Juventus (via the Guardian) which could pave the way for Lopetegui to take over at Stamford Bridge ahead of the new season.
Los Blancos sacked the 52-year-old after he made a nightmare start to his managerial career at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. Since then, he has been out of work and is available for the Pensioners to consider if Sarri ends up parting ways with them later this summer.
Lopetegui Vs Sarri: Who Has A Better Managerial Record?
The Asteasu born head coach took charge of 14 matches for the Galacticos, winning six, drawing two and losing six of those games across all competitions. However, he had a much better record when he was the manager of the Spanish national side (Stats taken from Transfermarkt).
Lopetegui had led his nation out in 20 international matches, winning 14 and drawing six of those clashes (Stats taken from Transfermarkt). However, he was sacked just a few days before the 2018 FIFA World Cup kicked off in Russia when he was named as the new Real Madrid boss.
Comparatively, Sarri has fared much better as a manager in recent years. The Italian boss did a fantastic job during his spell at Napoli which earned him a move to West London last summer. The 60-year-old has taken charge of 62 matches for Chelsea, winning 39, drawing 11 and losing 12 of those games thus far (Stats taken from Transfermarkt).
He has already led Chelsea to a Top 3 finish in the Premier League this season and has also had a remarkable run in Europe as well. Sarri is now preparing his players for a mouth-watering UEFA Europa League final clash against Arsenal which is set to take place at the Olympic Stadium in Baku, Azerbaijan later this month.
Chelsea Should Look To Retain Sarri Rather Than Replace Him
Sarri’s stellar record at Chelsea proves that he is the right man for the job. If he can find a way to deliver the Europa League, then there is no reason for the Pensioners to change their manager. On the other hand, if the experienced Italian decided to move to Juventus, then Lopetegui could be a potential option that the West London outfit can explore if needed.
