New boss Sarri reveals Abramovich’s demands for Chelsea season

Sarri said he “did not want to say anything wrong” in his first media conference in explaining his preference to speak in Italian.

He also insisted he had not spoken to Carlo Ancelotti, the former Chelsea boss who succeeded him at Napoli, ahead of his move to Stamford Bridge.

He said: “Well, for me this is a difficult challenge, but a fascinating one. I know it will be very difficult and here we have the strongest coaches in the world and the strongest players in the world.

“I know this will be an extremely difficult challenge for me. I have not asked anything of anyone. I want to have this experience also based on my mistakes.”

He also paid tribute to his compatriot Antonio Conte, who was sacked last week, while also saying he will need time to impose his methods, particularly with many players still absent after the World Cup.

He added: “Antonio has reached incredible results here and elsewhere. He is an extraordinary manager. Clearly I play in a slightly different way so it will take some time for the squad.

“This is a post-World Cup time. It will take some time to build a slightly different way of playing. All good things Antonio Conte did must be left. They must not be changed.”

Sarri insisted the only target set by Chelsea was to be competitive this season, while he refused to be drawn on any conversations with owner Roman Abramovich, the Russian billionaire who has been in dispute with UK authorities over the lack of a visa renewal.

He said: “They have just asked me to build a season to be competitive in all competitions. Then during the season we’ll see whether or not we want to have more specific objectives.

“Our owner is an extremely reserved person, so I don’t want to start a work relationship with him by speaking about private things.

“I think this is an extremely private relationship and I would also hope this relationship is respected.”

Sarri is yet to win a trophy as a manager, but earned plaudits for his performance as Napoli boss.

He hopes to end his silverware search with Chelsea.

“It’s true I haven’t won anything, but I have been in Serie A for four or five years and apart from Juventus, no one has won anything,” he added.

“I think we have worked very well and the difference between working well and winning often is minimal.

“Honestly I hope I will be able to fill in this gap with the club, the difference between doing well and winning.”

 

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