Ex-Arsenal man on why Chelsea target would guarantee success

Luis Enrique: Praise for Wenger

Reported Chelsea managerial target Luis Enrique would be an enormous success in the Premier League and could replicate the success Pep Guardiola has enjoyed at Manchester City, according to Thomas Vermaelen.

The Spaniard has been heavily linked with the Blues amid ongoing talk Antonio Conte could be replaced after a difficult season at Stamford Bridge.

Conte is under pressure following a disappointing defence of their Premier League title, with some reports suggesting he could be shown the door if the Blues are bundled out of the Champions League by Barcelona. The first leg of their tie is scheduled for Tuesday at Stamford Bridge, with the return at the Nou Camp in three weeks time.

And should the Blues move to bring in former Barcelona boss Enrique as his successor, the potential move has received a ringing endorsement by former Arsenal man Vermaelen, who played under him at the Nou Camp.

Vermaelen: Premier League return a possibility

When asked if he thought Enrique could succeed in the Premier League he told The Guardian: “I think so. ‘I think it’s similar to what you’re seeing with Pep Guardiola at Manchester City.

“You bring a bit of the Spanish influence into English football and it might take time but it can work very well.

“I had a very good relationship with Luis Enrique. The way he talks to players is very good. He knows how to make a player feel right.

“If you asked me about the best managers I’ve worked with, I would always include him. Now I’m getting the chance to play more but I’m not going to say that because I was playing less with Luis Enrique he was a bad coach.”

 

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