In a recent interview with The Sun, Maurizio Sarri, the former manager of Chelsea and Lazio, opened up about his past decisions and future ambitions. Sarri expressed regret over leaving Chelsea for Juventus after just one season, during which he secured the UEFA Europa League title.
Reflecting on his departure from Chelsea in 2019, Sarri revealed the challenges he faced at the club. “I wanted to return to Italy because the situation at Chelsea was not easy,” he explained. At that time, Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich was unable to enter the UK, which complicated communication. “I only saw him at matches abroad. We spoke on the phone, but not very often. My only point of reference was Marina,” he said, referring to Marina Granovskaia, who played a crucial role in club operations.
Despite his desire to return home, Sarri admitted that it was a mistake to leave Chelsea. “I wanted to return to Italy, but it was an error. It would have been better to stay there,” he stated. He had concerns about the internal dynamics at Chelsea and sought clarity about his future. “I asked Marina if it was possible to go back to Italy, and she asked Juventus for money to release me. They said that if I wanted, I could have stayed at Chelsea.”
Looking back on his time with Chelsea, Sarri recognized the positives despite some setbacks. “In the end, my experience at Chelsea was positive, with good results,” he noted. The team finished third in the Premier League, reached the League Cup final, and won the Europa League. “We played a lot of beautiful matches,” he added, acknowledging a few disappointing losses that briefly frustrated fans.
Now ready for a new challenge, Sarri expressed a strong desire to return to the Premier League. “I managed things at the highest level. We won the Scudetto with Juventus, but it’s not the same as the Premier League,” he remarked. He praised England’s footballing environment: “The Premier League is the highest level for players, teams, clubs, stadiums, and fans. I would love to return.”
Sarri concluded by expressing confidence in his abilities as a manager: “If I had a team and had the opportunity to be the coach of a team at that level again, I think I could do even better.” His reflections reveal a deep appreciation for his time in England and an eagerness to return to one of football’s most competitive leagues.
