When news emerged yesterday that Antonio Conte had left Chelsea, it hardly came as a surprise. However, the worst kept secret in football has taken some time to finally come about, with Conte unexpectedly taking training when his players returned from their summer breaks for pre-season.
Disappointing season for Chelsea means no Champions League football in 2018/19
Last season was a huge disappointment for Chelsea, despite winning the FA Cup. Missing out on the Champions League after a fifth place finish in the Premier League compounded their misery. Big money deals for players like Morata just didn’t work out and the majority of Chelsea fans lost patience with their Italian manager.
Now it looks like it could be a busy period of change for Chelsea, both in the coaching staff and the playing staff. Rumours have already been circulating regarding the futures of Hazard, Morata, Willian and Courtois, whilst several other players could be moving on to make way for Sarri’s new look Chelsea.
Jorginho to Chelsea as Hazard moves on?
Jorginho is one player that has been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge but until Sarri is officially announced, it is unlikely that any signings will be made for Chelsea. As the World Cup is coming to an end this weekend, Hazard and Courtois will be looking to sort out their futures, with Hazard being lined up as a potential replacement for Ronaldo at Real Madrid.
If Hazard does leave then that will leave a big gap in Chelsea’s team, so Sarri will have to be quick to bring in a replacement before the season starts. Morata is thought to want a move back to LaLiga and Courtois is also reported to be hoping for a move to Spain. It certainly looks like it will be a busy few weeks at Chelsea, as Sarri puts together a team that he believes can get back into the top four in the Premier League.
