Chelsea questioned new manager Maurizio Sarri over alleged sexist and homophobic views expressed by the former Napoli boss in the past.
The Italian tactician was confirmed as Chelsea’s new manager on Saturday, replacing Antonio Conte, who departs after two years at Stamford Bridge.
While Sarri impressed hugely during his time at Napoli, his on-pitch work has been somewhat marred by off-the-pitch incidents that raise serious question marks over his character.
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The 59-year-old was accused of hurling homophobic abuse at Roberto Mancini during a disagreement once, while he is also quoted as saying ‘You’re a woman, you’re beautiful, for those two reasons I won’t tell you to go f*** yourself’ to a female reporter earlier this year.
Chelsea have been assured, however, that these are not Sarri’s views as he addressed the issue during his talks over taking over from Conte, according to the Telegraph.
Only time will tell if this appointment proves to be something of a gamble, but some fans may have reason to question Chelsea bringing in a manager with such a reputation.
Weird they missed out Mancini’s quote on Sarri:
“People like him do not belong in football. He used racist words. I stood up to ask about the five minutes being added on and Sarri shouted ‘poof’ and ‘faggot’ at me. I would be proud to be that if he is what’s considered a man.” https://t.co/5GcRCJ87D3
— David (@DerKopite) July 14, 2018
Conte’s sacking also looks harsh anyway, given that the former Juventus boss won the Premier League and FA Cup in just two seasons in charge in west London.
However, the Blues only managed to finish 5th in the Premier League last term, missing out on Champions League football, and Roman Abramovich doesn’t exactly have the best record in terms of sticking with managers for the long term.