Chelsea midfielder Danny Drinkwater has no future at the Premier League club because he is not suited to their style of play, manager Maurizio Sarri said on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Drinkwater joined Chelsea from Leicester City for a reported $45.84 million in 2017 but last played for the London club in the Community Shield in August.&nbsp;

The midfielder was charged with drink driving earlier this week and was left out of Chelsea's squad for their trip to face Slavia Prague in the Europa League quarter-finals later on Thursday.&nbsp;

"(Drinkwater) has never played because... he's not suitable to my system, to my way of playing," Sarri told reporters.&nbsp;

"Maybe I'm wrong, but it's my opinion. I spoke with him in August, when the market was still open, and said he should look for something different because he wouldn't play. And I told him the reasons, my reasons.&nbsp;

"I don't know (why he decided to stay). Probably he hoped we could change the system. I have a very good relationship with him because, in my opinion, he's a good boy... but he's not suitable for me."&nbsp;

Sarri plans to make five or six changes for the Europa League match and says his side will need to be on their toes to get a result.&nbsp;

"In my opinion, this is a very dangerous match for us," he added. Slavia are a fast team, so we need to be very, very compact and defend really very well.&nbsp;

"They are dangerous, especially on crosses where they attack the box with five or six players, and are dangerous on counter-attacks. So it won't be easy for us."&nbsp;

Chelsea midfielder Danny Drinkwater has no future at the Premier League club because he is not suited to their style of play, manager Maurizio Sarri said on Wednesday.

Chelsea midfielder Danny Drinkwater has no future at the Premier League club because he is not suited to their style of play, manager Maurizio Sarri said on Wednesday. Drinkwater joined Chelsea from Leicester City for a reported $45.84 million in 2017 but last played for the London club in the Community Shield in August. The midfielder was charged with drink driving earlier this week and was left out of Chelsea's squad for their trip to face Slavia Prague in the Europa League quarter-finals later on Thursday. "(Drinkwater) has never played because... he's not suitable to my system, to my way of playing," Sarri told reporters. "Maybe I'm wrong, but it's my opinion. I spoke with him in August, when the market was still open, and said he should look for something different because he wouldn't play. And I told him the reasons, my reasons. "I don't know (why he decided to stay). Probably he hoped we could change the system. I have a very good relationship with him because, in my opinion, he's a good boy... but he's not suitable for me." Sarri plans to make five or six changes for the Europa League match and says his side will need to be on their toes to get a result. "In my opinion, this is a very dangerous match for us," he added. Slavia are a fast team, so we need to be very, very compact and defend really very well. "They are dangerous, especially on crosses where they attack the box with five or six players, and are dangerous on counter-attacks. So it won't be easy for us."

Danny Drinkwater has no future at Chelsea, says Maurizio Sarri

Belgium national team captain Eden Hazard displayed his dribbling skills to help Chelsea beat West Ham United 2-0 at Stamford Bridge.

By virtue of this win, Chelsea moved to third place in the Premier League standings.&nbsp;

Hazard was in top form, scoring a brace to take his tally of goals in the Premier League to 16. Hazard has been directly involved in 28 goals this season, the most for any player in the Premier League.&nbsp;

His opener came in the 24th minute and will surely go down as one of the contenders for the goal of the season.&nbsp;

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If you didn’t watch last nights game or if you are like me and want to watch Eden Hazard’s fantastic individual goal again here it is! 
 
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After the match, Eden Hazard admitted his first goal was "something special".&nbsp;

Chelsea is now two points clear of Tottenham and three ahead of fifth-placed Arsenal in the race for a top-four finish.

Belgium national team captain Eden Hazard displayed his dribbling skills to help Chelsea beat West Ham United 2-0 at Stamford Bridge. By virtue of this win, Chelsea moved to third place in the Premier League standings.

Belgium national team captain Eden Hazard displayed his dribbling skills to help Chelsea beat West Ham United 2-0 at Stamford Bridge. By virtue of this win, Chelsea moved to third place in the Premier League standings. Hazard was in top form, scoring a brace to take his tally of goals in the Premier League to 16. Hazard has been directly involved in 28 goals this season, the most for any player in the Premier League. His opener came in the 24th minute and will surely go down as one of the contenders for the goal of the season. If you didn’t watch last nights game or if you are like me and want to watch Eden Hazard’s fantastic individual goal again here it is! pic.twitter.com/1Ttn7ysdrr — Daily Football (@DailyFootball90) April 9, 2019 × After the match, Eden Hazard admitted his first goal was "something special". Chelsea is now two points clear of Tottenham and three ahead of fifth-placed Arsenal in the race for a top-four finish.

Watch: Eden Hazard's spectacular solo goal against West Ham United

&nbsp;Chelsea midfielder Danny Drinkwater has been charged with drink driving after being involved in an accident near Manchester, British police said on Tuesday.

"A 29-year-old from Nether Alderley has been charged with drink driving following an incident in Cheshire," Cheshire police said in a statement.

"Danny Drinkwater, of Bollington Lane, was arrested shortly after 12.30 a.m. on Monday 8 April following a one-vehicle collision on Ashley Road in Mere.

"He has been released on unconditional bail and is set to appear at Stockport Magistrates' Court on Monday, May 13."

Drinkwater joined Chelsea from Leicester City in 2017 and has made 12 league appearances in total for the London club. His last appearance was in the Community Shield in August.

Chelsea midfielder Danny Drinkwater has been charged with drink driving after being involved in an accident near Manchester, British police said on Tuesday. "A 29-year-old from Nether Alderley has been charged with drink driving following an incident in Cheshire," Cheshire police said in a statement.

Chelsea midfielder Danny Drinkwater has been charged with drink driving after being involved in an accident near Manchester, British police said on Tuesday. "A 29-year-old from Nether Alderley has been charged with drink driving following an incident in Cheshire," Cheshire police said in a statement. "Danny Drinkwater, of Bollington Lane, was arrested shortly after 12.30 a.m. on Monday 8 April following a one-vehicle collision on Ashley Road in Mere. "He has been released on unconditional bail and is set to appear at Stockport Magistrates' Court on Monday, May 13." Drinkwater joined Chelsea from Leicester City in 2017 and has made 12 league appearances in total for the London club. His last appearance was in the Community Shield in August.

Chelsea's Danny Drinkwater charged with drink driving

Chelsea boss <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Maurizio+Sarri">Maurizio Sarri</a> expects Olivier Giroud to stay at the club next season and said he believes the French striker wants to remain at Stamford Bridge.

Giroud's contract expires in June but Chelsea have an option to extend the deal by a further 12 months.

The 32-year-old, who joined from Arsenal last January, said last month that he wanted to move back to France after growing frustrated by a lack of playing time since Chelsea signed Argentine striker Gonzalo Higuain in the recent transfer window.

When Sarri was asked whether he wanted to retain the Frenchman's services, he said: "Yes, of course.

"I know the club have an option for another season, so I think he will remain. Do I get the impression he wants to stay? I think so."

Giroud, who helped France win the World Cup last year, has started only seven Premier League games this season. However, he has started the majority of Chelsea's Europa League matches and is the competition's top scorer with nine goals.

Chelsea, who were hit with a one-year transfer ban in February, lodged an appeal to FIFA's Appeal Committee and the case will be heard on April 11.

Chelsea, who host West Ham United in the Premier League on Monday, are fifth in the table with 63 points.

Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri expects Olivier Giroud to stay at the club next season and said he believes the French striker wants to remain at Stamford Bridge. Giroud's contract expires in June but Chelsea have an option to extend the deal by a further 12 months.

Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri expects Olivier Giroud to stay at the club next season and said he believes the French striker wants to remain at Stamford Bridge. Giroud's contract expires in June but Chelsea have an option to extend the deal by a further 12 months. The 32-year-old, who joined from Arsenal last January, said last month that he wanted to move back to France after growing frustrated by a lack of playing time since Chelsea signed Argentine striker Gonzalo Higuain in the recent transfer window. When Sarri was asked whether he wanted to retain the Frenchman's services, he said: "Yes, of course. "I know the club have an option for another season, so I think he will remain. Do I get the impression he wants to stay? I think so." Giroud, who helped France win the World Cup last year, has started only seven Premier League games this season. However, he has started the majority of Chelsea's Europa League matches and is the competition's top scorer with nine goals. Chelsea, who were hit with a one-year transfer ban in February, lodged an appeal to FIFA's Appeal Committee and the case will be heard on April 11. Chelsea, who host West Ham United in the Premier League on Monday, are fifth in the table with 63 points.

Maurizio Sarri wants to retain Olivier Giroud at Chelsea next season

Cardiff City manager Neil Warnock said the standard of officiating in the Premier League had gone backwards because former referee Mike Riley is at the helm of the body responsible for match officials in English soccer.

Warnock was critical of the refereeing after Chelsea's controversial 2-1 win over the weekend, in which Cesar Azpilicueta scored their equaliser from an offside position.

The result left Warnock's side five points from the safety zone.

A number of other decisions did not go in Cardiff's favour either, which left Warnock fuming on the touchline. The 70-year-old said referees would not change their outlook to the game while Riley was in charge.

"A lot of referees are like Mike Riley, and that's why I think we have gone backwards," Warnock told reporters on Tuesday. "I always thought Mike Riley was a manufactured referee from day one.

"I don't think he's changed since then, he's been coached, manufactured, almost like a robot. He knows everything about the rules, but I feel these people struggle to understand the game and the human element."

Warnock was involved in what looked like a staredown in the centre circle with referee Craig Pawson and his assistants after the defeat by Chelsea but he was not sanctioned by the Football Association (FA) for his actions.

"I cannot imagine why they would even think about a charge. I'm not surprised about that if I am honest," Warnock added.

"As I always do after a home game, I go and clap the crowd. The officials have usually gone off by then but for whatever reason they did not seem to want to move.

"I didn't really know what to do. So I started clapping the crowd while they were still there and then went around the back of them as they walked past and went to the main stand."

Manchester City will return to the top of the standings if they beat Cardiff on Wednesday and Warnock admitted City's squad depth was too much for any of the bottom half clubs to handle.

"I think they've got two teams in their squad and I doubt if any of our squad could get in either of them," he said. "I doubt if anybody in the bottom half could get in either of them.

"They've just taken the Premier League to another level. You're pitting your wits against the very best, possibly in the world, let alone Europe."

The refeering body, the Professional Game Match Officials Ltd, could not immediately be reached for comment.

Cardiff City manager Neil Warnock said the standard of officiating in the Premier League had gone backwards because former referee Mike Riley is at the helm of the body responsible for match officials in English soccer.

Cardiff City manager Neil Warnock said the standard of officiating in the Premier League had gone backwards because former referee Mike Riley is at the helm of the body responsible for match officials in English soccer. Warnock was critical of the refereeing after Chelsea's controversial 2-1 win over the weekend, in which Cesar Azpilicueta scored their equaliser from an offside position. The result left Warnock's side five points from the safety zone. A number of other decisions did not go in Cardiff's favour either, which left Warnock fuming on the touchline. The 70-year-old said referees would not change their outlook to the game while Riley was in charge. "A lot of referees are like Mike Riley, and that's why I think we have gone backwards," Warnock told reporters on Tuesday. "I always thought Mike Riley was a manufactured referee from day one. "I don't think he's changed since then, he's been coached, manufactured, almost like a robot. He knows everything about the rules, but I feel these people struggle to understand the game and the human element." Warnock was involved in what looked like a staredown in the centre circle with referee Craig Pawson and his assistants after the defeat by Chelsea but he was not sanctioned by the Football Association (FA) for his actions. "I cannot imagine why they would even think about a charge. I'm not surprised about that if I am honest," Warnock added. "As I always do after a home game, I go and clap the crowd. The officials have usually gone off by then but for whatever reason they did not seem to want to move. "I didn't really know what to do. So I started clapping the crowd while they were still there and then went around the back of them as they walked past and went to the main stand." Manchester City will return to the top of the standings if they beat Cardiff on Wednesday and Warnock admitted City's squad depth was too much for any of the bottom half clubs to handle. "I think they've got two teams in their squad and I doubt if any of our squad could get in either of them," he said. "I doubt if anybody in the bottom half could get in either of them. "They've just taken the Premier League to another level. You're pitting your wits against the very best, possibly in the world, let alone Europe." The refeering body, the Professional Game Match Officials Ltd, could not immediately be reached for comment.

Mike Riley has taken Premier League refereeing backwards, says Cardiff boss Warnock

From Pep Guardiola to Zinedine Zidane: Top football coaches and their shocking salaries

Former AC Milan striker Alexandre Pato joined Sao Paulo on Wednesday, returning to Brazil after a two-year stint with Chinese side Tianjin Tianhai, the Brazilian club said.

Pato, who has also enjoyed time at Corinthians, Chelsea and Villareal, signed a three-year contract with Sao Paulo. It will be his second spell at the club.

Pato, 29, broke into the Internacional side as a teenager in 2006 and helped them to the Club World Cup the same year when they beat Barcelona 1-0.

His pace, maturity and cool head in front of goal won him a transfer to AC Milan, where he spent five years.

However, he has failed to make a lasting mark at any of the six clubs he graced since and fallen out of favour at international level, with his last cap coming in 2013.

Former AC Milan striker Alexandre Pato joined Sao Paulo on Wednesday, returning to Brazil after a two-year stint with Chinese side Tianjin Tianhai, the Brazilian club said.

Former AC Milan striker Alexandre Pato joined Sao Paulo on Wednesday, returning to Brazil after a two-year stint with Chinese side Tianjin Tianhai, the Brazilian club said. Pato, who has also enjoyed time at Corinthians, Chelsea and Villareal, signed a three-year contract with Sao Paulo. It will be his second spell at the club. Pato, 29, broke into the Internacional side as a teenager in 2006 and helped them to the Club World Cup the same year when they beat Barcelona 1-0. His pace, maturity and cool head in front of goal won him a transfer to AC Milan, where he spent five years. However, he has failed to make a lasting mark at any of the six clubs he graced since and fallen out of favour at international level, with his last cap coming in 2013.

Brazil's Pato returns to Sao Paulo after China stint

Chelsea have lodged an appeal against a one-year transfer ban to FIFA's Appeal Committee and the case will be heard on April 11, the sport's world governing body said on Monday.

The English Premier League club were banned from registering new players in the next two transfer windows and fined $605,000 after they were found guilty of breaching rules on signing foreign players under the age of 18.

FIFA this month denied Chelsea's request to freeze the ban during the appeal process.

Chelsea may take their case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, as other clubs have done in the past.

Chelsea have lodged an appeal against a one-year transfer ban to FIFA's Appeal Committee and the case will be heard on April 11, the sport's world governing body said on Monday.

Chelsea have lodged an appeal against a one-year transfer ban to FIFA's Appeal Committee and the case will be heard on April 11, the sport's world governing body said on Monday. The English Premier League club were banned from registering new players in the next two transfer windows and fined $605,000 after they were found guilty of breaching rules on signing foreign players under the age of 18. FIFA this month denied Chelsea's request to freeze the ban during the appeal process. Chelsea may take their case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, as other clubs have done in the past.

FIFA to hear Chelsea transfer ban appeal on April 11

Belgium midfielder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Eden+Hazard">Eden Hazard</a> has denied reports that he has agreed to a deal to move from Premier League club Chelsea to Spanish giants Real Madrid.&nbsp;

He said, "There's nothing there. Today I'm focusing on tomorrow's match against Cyprus. That's the only thing in my head now."&nbsp;

The media reports suggested Hazard had agreed to join Real after speaking to their coach, Zinedine Zidane.&nbsp;

Hazard was speaking at a press conference in Cyprus ahead of Belgium's Euro 2020 qualifier in Nicosia on Sunday in which he will win his 100th international cap.&nbsp;

Asked how long he hoped to continue playing for the national side, Hazard said, "I am going to see how, at 28, my body reacts."&nbsp;

"I'm in great form, but with the accumulation of matches, sometimes it gets a bit complicated. Of course one wants to play in the maximum of major tournaments."&nbsp;

"There are the Euros coming up, another World Cup, then another Euros. So we will see. And, as I have already said, if I see that the next generation is growing, for me there won't be a problem. I will cede my place to the younger ones."&nbsp;

Recently, former Belgium World Cup star Enzo Scifo described Hazard as the best Belgian player of all time.&nbsp;

Belgium midfielder Eden Hazard has denied reports that he has agreed to a deal to move from Premier League club Chelsea to Spanish giants Real Madrid. He said, "There's nothing there.

Belgium midfielder Eden Hazard has denied reports that he has agreed to a deal to move from Premier League club Chelsea to Spanish giants Real Madrid. He said, "There's nothing there. Today I'm focusing on tomorrow's match against Cyprus. That's the only thing in my head now." The media reports suggested Hazard had agreed to join Real after speaking to their coach, Zinedine Zidane. Hazard was speaking at a press conference in Cyprus ahead of Belgium's Euro 2020 qualifier in Nicosia on Sunday in which he will win his 100th international cap. Asked how long he hoped to continue playing for the national side, Hazard said, "I am going to see how, at 28, my body reacts." "I'm in great form, but with the accumulation of matches, sometimes it gets a bit complicated. Of course one wants to play in the maximum of major tournaments." "There are the Euros coming up, another World Cup, then another Euros. So we will see. And, as I have already said, if I see that the next generation is growing, for me there won't be a problem. I will cede my place to the younger ones." Recently, former Belgium World Cup star Enzo Scifo described Hazard as the best Belgian player of all time.

Chelsea's Eden Hazard denies reports he has signed deal with Real Madrid

Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud wants to move back to France when his contract expires at the end of the season after growing frustrated by a lack of playing time under manager Maurizio Sarri.

Giroud has not started a Premier League game for Chelsea since the club signed Argentina international striker Gonzalo Higuain in January.

"The future may be hectic this summer," Giroud told French radio station RTL. "I'm not afraid to go down a level to have more playing time. It could be I end my career in France."

The striker, who won the World Cup with France last year, scored 33 goals in 73 league appearances for Montpellier before moving to Arsenal in 2012, and has attracted interest from Olympique Lyonnais, according to reports in the French media.

The 32-year-old has been used mainly in the Europa League by Sarri and is the competition's top scorer this season with nine goals in nine appearances, but does not believe he can force his way into the Italian coach's Premier League plans.

"Today, I have the impression there's clearly no competition (for places in attack) since January. It's like that, I know that I will only play in the Europa League," Giroud added.

"I try to do what it takes to be as effective and as important as I can for the team."

Chelsea are sixth in the Premier League, three points below the fourth and final Champions League qualification place currently occupied by Arsenal.

Sarri's side could also secure Champions League football for next season by winning the Europa League, where they face Slavia Prague in the quarter-finals.

Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud wants to move back to France when his contract expires at the end of the season after growing frustrated by a lack of playing time under manager Maurizio Sarri.

Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud wants to move back to France when his contract expires at the end of the season after growing frustrated by a lack of playing time under manager Maurizio Sarri. Giroud has not started a Premier League game for Chelsea since the club signed Argentina international striker Gonzalo Higuain in January. "The future may be hectic this summer," Giroud told French radio station RTL. "I'm not afraid to go down a level to have more playing time. It could be I end my career in France." The striker, who won the World Cup with France last year, scored 33 goals in 73 league appearances for Montpellier before moving to Arsenal in 2012, and has attracted interest from Olympique Lyonnais, according to reports in the French media. The 32-year-old has been used mainly in the Europa League by Sarri and is the competition's top scorer this season with nine goals in nine appearances, but does not believe he can force his way into the Italian coach's Premier League plans. "Today, I have the impression there's clearly no competition (for places in attack) since January. It's like that, I know that I will only play in the Europa League," Giroud added. "I try to do what it takes to be as effective and as important as I can for the team." Chelsea are sixth in the Premier League, three points below the fourth and final Champions League qualification place currently occupied by Arsenal. Sarri's side could also secure Champions League football for next season by winning the Europa League, where they face Slavia Prague in the quarter-finals.

Chelsea's Giroud seeks France return to boost game time

Napoli, chasing their first European title since Diego Maradona's team won the old UEFA Cup in 1989, were drawn against Arsenal in the quarter-finals of the Europa League on Friday.

Rank outsiders Slavia Prague, who ousted Sevilla in thrilling style on Thursday, were rewarded with a tie against Chelsea, the other English Premier League team in the last eight.

Villarreal and Valencia were drawn together in an all-Spanish tie and Benfica will meet Eintracht Frankfurt, who eliminated Inter Milan with a 1-0 win at San Siro.

Arsenal were initially drawn at home in the second leg against Napoli but the order was reversed by UEFA to avoid a clash with Chelsea, who host Slavia in the return of their tie in London.

Arsenal or Napoli will meet Villarreal or Valencia in the semi-finals while Benfica or Eintracht play Slavia or Chelsea.

Napoli, chasing their first European title since Diego Maradona's team won the old UEFA Cup in 1989, were drawn against Arsenal in the quarter-finals of the Europa League on Friday.

Napoli, chasing their first European title since Diego Maradona's team won the old UEFA Cup in 1989, were drawn against Arsenal in the quarter-finals of the Europa League on Friday. Rank outsiders Slavia Prague, who ousted Sevilla in thrilling style on Thursday, were rewarded with a tie against Chelsea, the other English Premier League team in the last eight. Villarreal and Valencia were drawn together in an all-Spanish tie and Benfica will meet Eintracht Frankfurt, who eliminated Inter Milan with a 1-0 win at San Siro. Arsenal were initially drawn at home in the second leg against Napoli but the order was reversed by UEFA to avoid a clash with Chelsea, who host Slavia in the return of their tie in London. Arsenal or Napoli will meet Villarreal or Valencia in the semi-finals while Benfica or Eintracht play Slavia or Chelsea.

Europa League quarter-finals: Napoli face Arsenal, Slavia meet Chelsea

Arsenal striker <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-arsenal-slump-to-defeat-against-french-club-rennes-201871">Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang struck</a> twice as his side beat Stade Rennes 3-0 to reach the Europa League quarter-finals and join Chelsea, who earlier on Thursday thrashed Dynamo Kiev 5-0 with a hat-trick from Oliver Giroud.

But Inter Milan went out after a 1-0 home loss to Eintracht Frankfurt who made the last eight along with Napoli, Benfica, Slavia Prague and Spanish sides Valencia and Villarreal.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ac-milan-crash-out-of-europa-league-after-losing-to-olympiacos-183882">Arsenal had lost the first leg 3-1</a> against Rennes in France but it took them just 15 minutes to swing the tie their way.

Their Gabon forward Aubameyang tapped home a cross from Aaron Ramsey with just five minutes on the clock and then turned provider 10 minutes later when he crossed for Ainsley Maitland-Niles to double the lead with a header.

Although Rennes hit the post early in the second period, they were mostly toothless and Aubameyang cemented the victory with another goal from close range after 72 minutes.

Arsenal became only the second team in Europa League history to win a tie after losing the first leg 3-1.

Chelsea’s French striker Giroud, the competition's top scorer this season, got his seventh and eighth goals before Marcos Alonso tapped in a third just before halftime.

Giroud netted his third goal after 59 minutes when he headed home a Willian free kick and Callum Hudson-Odoi added a fifth to cap an 8-0 aggregate victory for the Premier League side.

The perfect hat-trick – goals with his left and right foot plus a header - was Giroud’s first for Chelsea and the win was the London club’s ninth in 10 European games this season and their biggest in the UEFA Cup or Europa League.

In the only tie between two former winners of the UEFA Cup, the predecessor to the Europa league, Eintracht stunned three-time champions Inter with a 1-0 victory that took them through.

Luka Jovic, the 21-year-old striker on loan from Benfica, lobbed Inter goalkeeper Samir Handanovic after six minutes and the visitors held on to progress after a goalless first leg.

Napoli had beaten Salzburg 3-0 at home last week and it looked like the tie was wrapped up after 14 minutes when Arkadiusz Milik put them ahead with an acrobatic strike.

But the Austrians, whose unbeaten home run in Europe stretches back 17 games, fought back for a 3-1 win on the night.

Munas Dabbur equalised with his eighth Europa League goal of the season and substitute Fredrik Gulbrandsen made it 2-1 from a low cross by Andreas Ulmer midway through the second half.

Christoph Leitgeb got Salzburg's third in stoppage-time but the away goal ensured Napoli went through 4-3 on aggregate.

It took hosts Krasnodar 85 minutes to revive their hopes of a quarter-final place at the expense of Valencia.

Trailing 2-1 from the first leg, Krasnodar levelled the aggregate score through Shapi Suleymanov's spectacular strike which would have put them through on away goals.

However, Goncalo Guedes broke Russian hearts with a goal in stoppage time to earn the Spaniards a dramatic victory.

They were joined by neighbours Villarreal, who qualified 5-2 on aggregate with a 2-1 win over Zenit St Petersburg.

Gerard Moreno put Villarreal 1-0 ahead after half an hour and Carlos Bacca doubled their lead with his 21st European goal early in the second half. Branislav Ivanovic got a consolation for Zenit in stoppage time.

Sevilla, were knocked out 6-5 on aggregate by Slavia Prague who claimed a thrilling 4-3 extra-time win. The teams were level at 2-2 after 90 minutes to leave the tie at 4-4 on aggregate.

But Mick van Buren and Ibrahim-Benjamin Traore scored for the home team either side of a Franco Vazquez goal for Sevilla to dump the three times Europa League winners out.

Benfica also needed extra time to knock out Dynamo Zagreb.

Jonas gave the Portuguese a 1-0 lead after 90 minutes to level the score at 1-1 on aggregate before Francisco Ferreira and Alex Grimaldo, with a sensational 30-yard drive, struck in the extra period to earn Benfica a record fifth last-eight spot.

The draw for the quarter-finals and semi-finals takes place on Friday.

Arsenal striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang struck twice as his side beat Stade Rennes 3-0 to reach the Europa League quarter-finals and join Chelsea, who earlier on Thursday thrashed Dynamo Kiev 5-0 with a hat-trick from Oliver Giroud.

Arsenal striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang struck twice as his side beat Stade Rennes 3-0 to reach the Europa League quarter-finals and join Chelsea, who earlier on Thursday thrashed Dynamo Kiev 5-0 with a hat-trick from Oliver Giroud. But Inter Milan went out after a 1-0 home loss to Eintracht Frankfurt who made the last eight along with Napoli, Benfica, Slavia Prague and Spanish sides Valencia and Villarreal. Arsenal had lost the first leg 3-1 against Rennes in France but it took them just 15 minutes to swing the tie their way. Their Gabon forward Aubameyang tapped home a cross from Aaron Ramsey with just five minutes on the clock and then turned provider 10 minutes later when he crossed for Ainsley Maitland-Niles to double the lead with a header. Although Rennes hit the post early in the second period, they were mostly toothless and Aubameyang cemented the victory with another goal from close range after 72 minutes. Arsenal became only the second team in Europa League history to win a tie after losing the first leg 3-1. Chelsea’s French striker Giroud, the competition's top scorer this season, got his seventh and eighth goals before Marcos Alonso tapped in a third just before halftime. Giroud netted his third goal after 59 minutes when he headed home a Willian free kick and Callum Hudson-Odoi added a fifth to cap an 8-0 aggregate victory for the Premier League side. The perfect hat-trick – goals with his left and right foot plus a header - was Giroud’s first for Chelsea and the win was the London club’s ninth in 10 European games this season and their biggest in the UEFA Cup or Europa League. In the only tie between two former winners of the UEFA Cup, the predecessor to the Europa league, Eintracht stunned three-time champions Inter with a 1-0 victory that took them through. Luka Jovic, the 21-year-old striker on loan from Benfica, lobbed Inter goalkeeper Samir Handanovic after six minutes and the visitors held on to progress after a goalless first leg. Napoli had beaten Salzburg 3-0 at home last week and it looked like the tie was wrapped up after 14 minutes when Arkadiusz Milik put them ahead with an acrobatic strike. But the Austrians, whose unbeaten home run in Europe stretches back 17 games, fought back for a 3-1 win on the night. Munas Dabbur equalised with his eighth Europa League goal of the season and substitute Fredrik Gulbrandsen made it 2-1 from a low cross by Andreas Ulmer midway through the second half. Christoph Leitgeb got Salzburg's third in stoppage-time but the away goal ensured Napoli went through 4-3 on aggregate. It took hosts Krasnodar 85 minutes to revive their hopes of a quarter-final place at the expense of Valencia. Trailing 2-1 from the first leg, Krasnodar levelled the aggregate score through Shapi Suleymanov's spectacular strike which would have put them through on away goals. However, Goncalo Guedes broke Russian hearts with a goal in stoppage time to earn the Spaniards a dramatic victory. They were joined by neighbours Villarreal, who qualified 5-2 on aggregate with a 2-1 win over Zenit St Petersburg. Gerard Moreno put Villarreal 1-0 ahead after half an hour and Carlos Bacca doubled their lead with his 21st European goal early in the second half. Branislav Ivanovic got a consolation for Zenit in stoppage time. Sevilla, were knocked out 6-5 on aggregate by Slavia Prague who claimed a thrilling 4-3 extra-time win. The teams were level at 2-2 after 90 minutes to leave the tie at 4-4 on aggregate. But Mick van Buren and Ibrahim-Benjamin Traore scored for the home team either side of a Franco Vazquez goal for Sevilla to dump the three times Europa League winners out. Benfica also needed extra time to knock out Dynamo Zagreb. Jonas gave the Portuguese a 1-0 lead after 90 minutes to level the score at 1-1 on aggregate before Francisco Ferreira and Alex Grimaldo, with a sensational 30-yard drive, struck in the extra period to earn Benfica a record fifth last-eight spot. The draw for the quarter-finals and semi-finals takes place on Friday.

Europa League: Aubameyang's double strike topples Stade Rennes; Arsenal in quarter-finals

From Raheem Sterling's sparkle to Harry Kane conundrum: Major takeaways from this week's Premier League

An injury-time goal from Eden Hazard salvaged a point for Chelsea against a dogged Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League on Sunday after Raul Jimenez had put the visitors ahead with one of their only two shots on goal.&nbsp;

Hazard smashed the ball past Rui Patricio in the 92nd minute after constant pressure from the home side, who are bidding for a top-four place.&nbsp;

Chelsea had been stunned in the 57th minute when Jimenez burst out of defence with Diogo Jota and the pair sliced through Chelsea's ranks before the Portuguese laid off the ball from wide for Jimenez to slot home.&nbsp;

Patricio made a sharp save shortly afterwards from striker Gonzalo Higuain and another from Willian in the dying minutes. Chelsea had 22 shots to the visitors' two and also enjoyed 76 per cent of possession.&nbsp;

The result leaves Chelsea in the sixth, level with Arsenal and behind Manchester United who were playing each other later on Sunday.&nbsp;

An injury-time goal from Eden Hazard salvaged a point for Chelsea against a dogged Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League on Sunday after Raul Jimenez had put the visitors ahead with one of their only two shots on goal.

An injury-time goal from Eden Hazard salvaged a point for Chelsea against a dogged Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League on Sunday after Raul Jimenez had put the visitors ahead with one of their only two shots on goal. Hazard smashed the ball past Rui Patricio in the 92nd minute after constant pressure from the home side, who are bidding for a top-four place. Chelsea had been stunned in the 57th minute when Jimenez burst out of defence with Diogo Jota and the pair sliced through Chelsea's ranks before the Portuguese laid off the ball from wide for Jimenez to slot home. Patricio made a sharp save shortly afterwards from striker Gonzalo Higuain and another from Willian in the dying minutes. Chelsea had 22 shots to the visitors' two and also enjoyed 76 per cent of possession. The result leaves Chelsea in the sixth, level with Arsenal and behind Manchester United who were playing each other later on Sunday.

Eden Hazard saves point for Chelsea in 1-1 draw with Wolves

Chelsea&nbsp;have slammed FIFA's decision not to suspend a two-window transfer ban pending the outcome of an appeal, claiming they are "astonished" by a move that would ruin the club's plans to revamp their struggling squad.

The Blues were banned from signing players for the next two transfer windows after being found guilty last month of breaching regulations relating to the recruitment of minors.

Chelsea&nbsp;denied any wrongdoing and subsequently <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-confirm-chelsea-appeal-against-transfer-ban-201419">lodged an appeal</a> with the governing body.

However, FIFA's appeal committee has announced that an application by the club for "provisional measures" has been rejected.

The announcement left&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;fuming and the Premier League club were quick to hit back.

"Chelsea&nbsp;Football Club is astonished by the FIFA Appeal Committee's decision not to suspend its sanction pending completion of the appeal process," a&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;statement said on Friday.

"The club acted in accordance with the relevant regulations and has already notified FIFA of its intention to appeal against the Disciplinary Committee's decision and sanction.

"As a matter of procedural fairness and equality of treatment, and Swiss law, the Club's right to an appeal process must be afforded, before any irremediable sanction takes effect.

"So far as the Club is aware, in all previous cases where a registration ban has been imposed by FIFA, a decision has also been made to suspend the sanction until the appeal process has been completed."

FIFA's decision means the original restrictions stand and&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;will be unable to recruit new players this summer or in the January 2020 transfer window.

In similar cases, Spanish clubs Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid were each granted provisional measures which ensured bans were not immediately enforced.

Chelsea&nbsp;feel their treatment is inconsistent and will consider their next steps once written reasons for the decision are received from FIFA. This could include an appeal against this decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).&nbsp;

"In this case,&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;considers that it is being treated inconsistently in comparison with other European clubs," the statement said.

We will consider our next steps once we have received the written reasons for this decision from FIFA.&nbsp;

"The Club notes the Appeal Committee’s statement that it has the right to appeal to CAS. In the meantime the Club will continue to fully cooperate with the proceedings."

Chelsea have slammed FIFA's decision not to suspend a two-window transfer ban pending the outcome of an appeal, claiming they are "astonished" by a move that would ruin the club's plans to revamp their struggling squad.

Chelsea have slammed FIFA's decision not to suspend a two-window transfer ban pending the outcome of an appeal, claiming they are "astonished" by a move that would ruin the club's plans to revamp their struggling squad. The Blues were banned from signing players for the next two transfer windows after being found guilty last month of breaching regulations relating to the recruitment of minors. Chelsea denied any wrongdoing and subsequently lodged an appeal with the governing body. However, FIFA's appeal committee has announced that an application by the club for "provisional measures" has been rejected. The announcement left Chelsea fuming and the Premier League club were quick to hit back. "Chelsea Football Club is astonished by the FIFA Appeal Committee's decision not to suspend its sanction pending completion of the appeal process," a Chelsea statement said on Friday. "The club acted in accordance with the relevant regulations and has already notified FIFA of its intention to appeal against the Disciplinary Committee's decision and sanction. "As a matter of procedural fairness and equality of treatment, and Swiss law, the Club's right to an appeal process must be afforded, before any irremediable sanction takes effect. "So far as the Club is aware, in all previous cases where a registration ban has been imposed by FIFA, a decision has also been made to suspend the sanction until the appeal process has been completed." FIFA's decision means the original restrictions stand and Chelsea will be unable to recruit new players this summer or in the January 2020 transfer window. In similar cases, Spanish clubs Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid were each granted provisional measures which ensured bans were not immediately enforced. Chelsea feel their treatment is inconsistent and will consider their next steps once written reasons for the decision are received from FIFA. This could include an appeal against this decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). "In this case, Chelsea considers that it is being treated inconsistently in comparison with other European clubs," the statement said. We will consider our next steps once we have received the written reasons for this decision from FIFA. "The Club notes the Appeal Committee’s statement that it has the right to appeal to CAS. In the meantime the Club will continue to fully cooperate with the proceedings."

Chelsea 'astonished' by FIFA transfer snub

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri needs no convincing about winger Callum Hudson-Odoi's immense potential but said he is reluctant to put too much pressure on the teenager as it could prove "dangerous" for his development.

Hudson-Odoi, who emerged as a transfer target for German giants Bayern Munich in January, came off the bench to score a late goal in Chelsea's 3-0 win over Dynamo Kiev in the first leg of their Europa League last-16 clash on Thursday.

Supporters were chanting for Hudson-Odoi to be brought on before the 18-year-old, who has not been able to break into the first team this season, was introduced with 12 minutes remaining.

"He doesn't have to do anything to convince me. He's a very great player. In my opinion, a player at 18 years old cannot be at the top. He needs to improve until he's 22 or 23," Sarri told a news conference.

"To have pressure when you're 18 is dangerous. You can lose (sight of) the target. When you're 18 the target is to improve tactically, mentally and physically. I don't like to speak about him for this reason.

"Now he needs to improve without the pressure of the media, the fans and the club, but he is in my mind for every match."

The win put Chelsea in a strong position to reach the quarter-finals of Europe's second-tier club competition but Italian Sarri warned his players against complacency ahead of the return leg in Kiev next Thursday.

"Now we have to be careful. We have to go there with a good level of application and determination if we want to qualify," Sarri added.

"If you concede a goal you can go mentally in trouble. We have to go there with the right level of attention."

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri needs no convincing about winger Callum Hudson-Odoi's immense potential but said he is reluctant to put too much pressure on the teenager as it could prove "dangerous" for his development.

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri needs no convincing about winger Callum Hudson-Odoi's immense potential but said he is reluctant to put too much pressure on the teenager as it could prove "dangerous" for his development. Hudson-Odoi, who emerged as a transfer target for German giants Bayern Munich in January, came off the bench to score a late goal in Chelsea's 3-0 win over Dynamo Kiev in the first leg of their Europa League last-16 clash on Thursday. Supporters were chanting for Hudson-Odoi to be brought on before the 18-year-old, who has not been able to break into the first team this season, was introduced with 12 minutes remaining. "He doesn't have to do anything to convince me. He's a very great player. In my opinion, a player at 18 years old cannot be at the top. He needs to improve until he's 22 or 23," Sarri told a news conference. "To have pressure when you're 18 is dangerous. You can lose (sight of) the target. When you're 18 the target is to improve tactically, mentally and physically. I don't like to speak about him for this reason. "Now he needs to improve without the pressure of the media, the fans and the club, but he is in my mind for every match." The win put Chelsea in a strong position to reach the quarter-finals of Europe's second-tier club competition but Italian Sarri warned his players against complacency ahead of the return leg in Kiev next Thursday. "Now we have to be careful. We have to go there with a good level of application and determination if we want to qualify," Sarri added. "If you concede a goal you can go mentally in trouble. We have to go there with the right level of attention."

Too much pressure can be 'dangerous' for Chelsea's Hudson-Odoi, says Maurizio Sarri

Chelsea outclassed Dynamo Kiev 3-0 in the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-edge-out-malmo-as-arsenal-suffer-europa-league-setback-197546"> first leg of their Europa League</a> last-16 tie on Thursday but Arsenal face an uphill task to make the quarter-finals after slumping to a 3-1 defeat at French club Rennes.

Napoli, Dynamo Zagreb, Villarreal and Valencia will also take victories into next week’s second legs, while Sevilla v Slavia Prague and Eintracht Frankfurt v Inter Milan ended all square.

Chelsea were by far the better side at Stamford Bridge – they had eight shots on target to Kiev's none - but it was not until Callum Hudson-Odoi scored a third goal in stoppage time that the scoreline fully reflected their dominance.

Pedro put the home side ahead after 17 minutes when he played a one-two with Olivier Giroud and set them on the road to their eighth win in nine Europa League games this season.

Brazilian midfielder Willian made it two with a perfect free kick after 65 minutes before 18-year-old substitute Hudson-Odoi side-footed home.

Arsenal had never lost to French opposition away from home in 12 previous European games and they took an early lead when what looked like a cross from Alex Iwobi evaded everyone and sneaked in at the far post.

Playing in their change turquoise-green shirts, the English side controlled most of the first half but the match changed completely four minutes before halftime when Sokratis Papastathopoulos was sent off for a second bookable offence.

Rennes equalised from the resulting free kick when Benjamin Bourigeaud rifled home at the second attempt and they came out for the second half looking far more positive than the Londoners.

The French team went ahead 20 minutes into the second half when Mehdi Zeffane’s shot looped off defender Nacho Monreal into the net and Ismaila Sarr made it 3-1 two minutes from time when he powered home a header from a lovely curling left-wing cross.

First-half goals from Arkadiusz Milik and Fabian Ruiz, and an own goal by Jerome Onguene gave Napoli a 3-0 over Austrian champions Salzburg and extended their unbeaten home record in the competition to five matches.

Sevilla, who have won the Europa League three times, twice went ahead against Slavia Prague but were pegged back on both occasions in a pulsating 2-2 draw in Spain.

Wissam Ben Yedder put the home side ahead in the first minute and although Miroslav Stoch equalised with a deflected shot, Munir restored Sevilla's lead.

Alex Kral put the visitors level again six minutes before halftime when he turned a corner into the net.

Fellow Spaniards Villarreal had a happier evening in St Petersburg and will take a solid 3-1 lead over Zenit into the second leg at home.

Villarreal, third bottom of La Liga, took the lead after 33 minutes when Vicente Iborra headed home from a free kick but the home side took only two minutes to level thanks to Sardar Azmoun, whose quick thinking allowed him to stab home from close range.

The Spaniards, though, took control in the second half, with Gerard Moreno putting them 2-1 ahead after 64 minutes and Manu Morlanes added the third.

Valencia, UEFA Cup winners in 2004 and the third Spanish side left in the competition, beat Krasnodar 2-1 thanks to a first-half double from Rodrigo.

An improved second-half performance from the Russian side was rewarded with a goal by Swede Viktor Claesson.

Bruno Petkovic scored a penalty for Dinamo Zagreb to give them a 1-0 home win over Benfica while in the only game between two former winners of the UEFA Cup, Eintracht Frankfurt were held 0-0 at home by Inter Milan.

It was the first time Eintracht, who have won seven of their eight Europa League matches this season, failed to score.

The second legs take place next Thursday.

Chelsea outclassed Dynamo Kiev 3-0 in the first leg of their Europa League last-16 tie on Thursday but Arsenal face an uphill task to make the quarter-finals after slumping to a 3-1 defeat at French club Rennes.

Chelsea outclassed Dynamo Kiev 3-0 in the first leg of their Europa League last-16 tie on Thursday but Arsenal face an uphill task to make the quarter-finals after slumping to a 3-1 defeat at French club Rennes. Napoli, Dynamo Zagreb, Villarreal and Valencia will also take victories into next week’s second legs, while Sevilla v Slavia Prague and Eintracht Frankfurt v Inter Milan ended all square. Chelsea were by far the better side at Stamford Bridge – they had eight shots on target to Kiev's none - but it was not until Callum Hudson-Odoi scored a third goal in stoppage time that the scoreline fully reflected their dominance. Pedro put the home side ahead after 17 minutes when he played a one-two with Olivier Giroud and set them on the road to their eighth win in nine Europa League games this season. Brazilian midfielder Willian made it two with a perfect free kick after 65 minutes before 18-year-old substitute Hudson-Odoi side-footed home. Arsenal had never lost to French opposition away from home in 12 previous European games and they took an early lead when what looked like a cross from Alex Iwobi evaded everyone and sneaked in at the far post. Playing in their change turquoise-green shirts, the English side controlled most of the first half but the match changed completely four minutes before halftime when Sokratis Papastathopoulos was sent off for a second bookable offence. Rennes equalised from the resulting free kick when Benjamin Bourigeaud rifled home at the second attempt and they came out for the second half looking far more positive than the Londoners. The French team went ahead 20 minutes into the second half when Mehdi Zeffane’s shot looped off defender Nacho Monreal into the net and Ismaila Sarr made it 3-1 two minutes from time when he powered home a header from a lovely curling left-wing cross. First-half goals from Arkadiusz Milik and Fabian Ruiz, and an own goal by Jerome Onguene gave Napoli a 3-0 over Austrian champions Salzburg and extended their unbeaten home record in the competition to five matches. Sevilla, who have won the Europa League three times, twice went ahead against Slavia Prague but were pegged back on both occasions in a pulsating 2-2 draw in Spain. Wissam Ben Yedder put the home side ahead in the first minute and although Miroslav Stoch equalised with a deflected shot, Munir restored Sevilla's lead. Alex Kral put the visitors level again six minutes before halftime when he turned a corner into the net. Fellow Spaniards Villarreal had a happier evening in St Petersburg and will take a solid 3-1 lead over Zenit into the second leg at home. Villarreal, third bottom of La Liga, took the lead after 33 minutes when Vicente Iborra headed home from a free kick but the home side took only two minutes to level thanks to Sardar Azmoun, whose quick thinking allowed him to stab home from close range. The Spaniards, though, took control in the second half, with Gerard Moreno putting them 2-1 ahead after 64 minutes and Manu Morlanes added the third. Valencia, UEFA Cup winners in 2004 and the third Spanish side left in the competition, beat Krasnodar 2-1 thanks to a first-half double from Rodrigo. An improved second-half performance from the Russian side was rewarded with a goal by Swede Viktor Claesson. Bruno Petkovic scored a penalty for Dinamo Zagreb to give them a 1-0 home win over Benfica while in the only game between two former winners of the UEFA Cup, Eintracht Frankfurt were held 0-0 at home by Inter Milan. It was the first time Eintracht, who have won seven of their eight Europa League matches this season, failed to score. The second legs take place next Thursday.

Europa League: Arsenal slump to defeat against French club Rennes

FIFA confirmed on Tuesday that English Premier League club Chelsea have appealed against a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-bans-chelsea-for-next-two-transfer-windows-over-under-age-signings-198956">transfer ban imposed</a> after they were found guilty of breaching rules on overseas players under the age of 18.

The London side, banned from the next two transfer windows and also fined 600,000 Swiss francs ($600,000), had already said they would appeal against the decision taken by FIFA's disciplinary committee last month.

FIFA said in a statement that it could not give a schedule for the process, nor say whether the ban would be lifted pending the appeal hearing.

"Any decision on the sanction remaining in place during the appeal process is to be taken by the chairman of the FIFA Appeal Committee," it said.

FIFA confirmed on Tuesday that English Premier League club Chelsea have appealed against a transfer ban imposed after they were found guilty of breaching rules on overseas players under the age of 18.

FIFA confirmed on Tuesday that English Premier League club Chelsea have appealed against a transfer ban imposed after they were found guilty of breaching rules on overseas players under the age of 18. The London side, banned from the next two transfer windows and also fined 600,000 Swiss francs ($600,000), had already said they would appeal against the decision taken by FIFA's disciplinary committee last month. FIFA said in a statement that it could not give a schedule for the process, nor say whether the ban would be lifted pending the appeal hearing. "Any decision on the sanction remaining in place during the appeal process is to be taken by the chairman of the FIFA Appeal Committee," it said.

FIFA confirm Chelsea appeal against transfer ban

Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga remains the club's first choice but manager Maurizio Sarri is still uncertain if the Spaniard will be recalled to the starting team for Sunday's Premier League trip to Fulham.

Arrizabalaga was fined by the club for his refusal to be substituted by Sarri near the end of extra time in Sunday's League Cup final defeat by Manchester City and he was dropped for Wednesday's 2-0 league win over Tottenham Hotspur.

"I'm sure in one of the two next matches he will be on the pitch," Sarri told a news conference, suggesting Willy Caballero could continue in goal after making his first league appearance of the season against Tottenham.

"Kepa's the first choice, of course, he is very young, he's improving, we know very well that he can become one of the best goalkeepers in Europe," Sarri added.

"But in this moment we know that Willy is doing very well. He (Arrizabalaga) is very important in our group and dressing room, so we need to consider him."

Sarri said Chelsea's players had to take the opportunity to come closer together after the incident at Wembley last week.

"After a difficult situation, a group is not the same. So there is the opportunity to be better, and you have to take it," the Italian added.

Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga remains the club's first choice but manager Maurizio Sarri is still uncertain if the Spaniard will be recalled to the starting team for Sunday's Premier League trip to Fulham.

Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga remains the club's first choice but manager Maurizio Sarri is still uncertain if the Spaniard will be recalled to the starting team for Sunday's Premier League trip to Fulham. Arrizabalaga was fined by the club for his refusal to be substituted by Sarri near the end of extra time in Sunday's League Cup final defeat by Manchester City and he was dropped for Wednesday's 2-0 league win over Tottenham Hotspur. "I'm sure in one of the two next matches he will be on the pitch," Sarri told a news conference, suggesting Willy Caballero could continue in goal after making his first league appearance of the season against Tottenham. "Kepa's the first choice, of course, he is very young, he's improving, we know very well that he can become one of the best goalkeepers in Europe," Sarri added. "But in this moment we know that Willy is doing very well. He (Arrizabalaga) is very important in our group and dressing room, so we need to consider him." Sarri said Chelsea's players had to take the opportunity to come closer together after the incident at Wembley last week. "After a difficult situation, a group is not the same. So there is the opportunity to be better, and you have to take it," the Italian added.

Maurizio Sarri not sure about Kepa Arrizabalaga's return to Chelsea team

Chelsea manager <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Maurizio+Sarri">Maurizio Sarri</a> has refused to confirm whether Kepa Arrizabalaga will return to the team at Fulham on Sunday after the controversial keeper was cast into exile following his Wembley mutiny.&nbsp;

Sarri is yet to decide whether to recall Kepa for Sunday's London derby after dropping him for Wednesday's win over Tottenham.

The Spaniard was disciplined over his extraordinary refusal to be substituted when he went down with cramp in the closing moments of last weekend's League Cup final defeat against Manchester City.

Willy Caballero started in place of Kepa against Tottenham, although Sarri insisted after the match that the former Athletic Bilbao star remained his first choice.

Sarri said Kepa and Argentine veteran Caballero will share goalkeeping duties in the next two games, with one playing on Sunday and the other in next week's Europa League last-16 first leg with Dynamo Kiev.

But, speaking at a press conference on Friday, Sarri wouldn't be drawn on which match Kepa would start in, raising the prospect of the world's most expensive keeper potentially missing a second successive league game.

"The Kepa situation now is closed. Kepa is our first (choice) goalkeeper," Sarri said.

"But we are very happy for Willy, because now we know very well he's able to play also in a very difficult match. I'm sure in one of the two next matches Kepa will be on the pitch."

Sarri, whose side had lost three out of four Premier League matches before their win against Spurs, said he was wary of the threat from lowly Fulham, who sacked manager Claudio Ranieri this week and replaced him with Scott Parker on a caretaker basis.

"I'm really very sorry," Sarri said about his Italian compatriot. "But I know very well his character, so I know very well that we will see him very soon, on another bench.

"Usually when there is change of the coach there is a reaction. And so we have to front (face) also the reaction.

"Then it's very difficult for us to prepare the match, because we don't know the new system, the new ideas. It's a very difficult match, I think."

Sarri has no injuries to consider but expects to rotate after a challenging week.

"On Sunday we played for 130 minutes and 95 minutes on Wednesday, so we need to value the recovery," he said.

"We ran for 15 kilometres on Sunday on average, and the average of the last match was 12km. I need to value the recovery of every single player. Then we have to decide (the team)."

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri has refused to confirm whether Kepa Arrizabalaga will return to the team at Fulham on Sunday after the controversial keeper was cast into exile following his Wembley mutiny.

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri has refused to confirm whether Kepa Arrizabalaga will return to the team at Fulham on Sunday after the controversial keeper was cast into exile following his Wembley mutiny. Sarri is yet to decide whether to recall Kepa for Sunday's London derby after dropping him for Wednesday's win over Tottenham. The Spaniard was disciplined over his extraordinary refusal to be substituted when he went down with cramp in the closing moments of last weekend's League Cup final defeat against Manchester City. Willy Caballero started in place of Kepa against Tottenham, although Sarri insisted after the match that the former Athletic Bilbao star remained his first choice. Sarri said Kepa and Argentine veteran Caballero will share goalkeeping duties in the next two games, with one playing on Sunday and the other in next week's Europa League last-16 first leg with Dynamo Kiev. But, speaking at a press conference on Friday, Sarri wouldn't be drawn on which match Kepa would start in, raising the prospect of the world's most expensive keeper potentially missing a second successive league game. "The Kepa situation now is closed. Kepa is our first (choice) goalkeeper," Sarri said. "But we are very happy for Willy, because now we know very well he's able to play also in a very difficult match. I'm sure in one of the two next matches Kepa will be on the pitch." Sarri, whose side had lost three out of four Premier League matches before their win against Spurs, said he was wary of the threat from lowly Fulham, who sacked manager Claudio Ranieri this week and replaced him with Scott Parker on a caretaker basis. "I'm really very sorry," Sarri said about his Italian compatriot. "But I know very well his character, so I know very well that we will see him very soon, on another bench. "Usually when there is change of the coach there is a reaction. And so we have to front (face) also the reaction. "Then it's very difficult for us to prepare the match, because we don't know the new system, the new ideas. It's a very difficult match, I think." Sarri has no injuries to consider but expects to rotate after a challenging week. "On Sunday we played for 130 minutes and 95 minutes on Wednesday, so we need to value the recovery," he said. "We ran for 15 kilometres on Sunday on average, and the average of the last match was 12km. I need to value the recovery of every single player. Then we have to decide (the team)."

Maurizio Sarri keeps Kepa waiting over Chelsea recall

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said on Wednesday that football’s governing body will consider changing the rules over the transfer of minors after Premier League Chelsea were hit with a transfer ban.

Chelsea were banned last week from signing anyone in the next two transfer windows after being found guilty of breaching FIFA’s rules relating to signing overseas players under the age of 18.

FIFA's rules say players aged 18 or under can only be transferred abroad if one of three criteria are met: if their parents emigrated for non-footballing reasons, both clubs are in the EU or European Economic Area and the player is aged between 16 and 18 or the player lives within 100km of the new club.

Clubs like Barcelona, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid have also received transfer bans in recent years after falling foul of the rules and Infantino, speaking at a news conference in Rome, said the regulations should be subjected to renewed scrutiny.

“There are rules, regulations, whether we like them or not they have to be respected as long as they are there,” he said.

“Otherwise if we don’t like them we need to change them... Maybe we should raise the minimum age all over Europe, or we should allow certain exceptions based on certain clear criteria, for young boys or girls to be able to have good training conditions in other parts, but protecting the minors.

“This is our main priority so it is certainly an area that we have to look into and continue looking into in the future as well."

Infantino, who was elected in February 2016, also said that FIFA intends to review regulations over the activity of football agents.

“We are planning to revisit the regulations governing agents because we feel it’s necessary to fine-tune those rules,” he said.

“Today the economic flow involved in transfers is about 8 billion euros ($9.10 billion) a year without considering the money paid to the footballers.

“So I think it would only be fair for those involved in these transfers to be regulated, their profession clearly needs to be governed. All other professions are governed and disciplined in Italy and throughout the world so why not them?"

Infantino said agents were subjected to tighter rules in the United States.

“Look at what happens in the USA. Often the USA is taken as an example but the USA is the homeland of the free market of laissez-faire. Everything is open, people do whatever they want. But these professions are regulated in a very stringent way.

“You’ve got huge volumes and books that govern transfers and changes in clubs and agents. We’ve got these slim booklets here in Europe and in FIFA so we’ve got a bit of work to do.

“We are talking about this with everyone – with clubs, leagues, federations and football players and agents. Hopefully this year we’ll be able to propose measures to further regulate this activity to protect everyone: footballers, clubs and agents themselves.”

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said on Wednesday that football’s governing body will consider changing the rules over the transfer of minors after Premier League Chelsea were hit with a transfer ban.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said on Wednesday that football’s governing body will consider changing the rules over the transfer of minors after Premier League Chelsea were hit with a transfer ban. Chelsea were banned last week from signing anyone in the next two transfer windows after being found guilty of breaching FIFA’s rules relating to signing overseas players under the age of 18. FIFA's rules say players aged 18 or under can only be transferred abroad if one of three criteria are met: if their parents emigrated for non-footballing reasons, both clubs are in the EU or European Economic Area and the player is aged between 16 and 18 or the player lives within 100km of the new club. Clubs like Barcelona, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid have also received transfer bans in recent years after falling foul of the rules and Infantino, speaking at a news conference in Rome, said the regulations should be subjected to renewed scrutiny. “There are rules, regulations, whether we like them or not they have to be respected as long as they are there,” he said. “Otherwise if we don’t like them we need to change them... Maybe we should raise the minimum age all over Europe, or we should allow certain exceptions based on certain clear criteria, for young boys or girls to be able to have good training conditions in other parts, but protecting the minors. “This is our main priority so it is certainly an area that we have to look into and continue looking into in the future as well." Infantino, who was elected in February 2016, also said that FIFA intends to review regulations over the activity of football agents. “We are planning to revisit the regulations governing agents because we feel it’s necessary to fine-tune those rules,” he said. “Today the economic flow involved in transfers is about 8 billion euros ($9.10 billion) a year without considering the money paid to the footballers. “So I think it would only be fair for those involved in these transfers to be regulated, their profession clearly needs to be governed. All other professions are governed and disciplined in Italy and throughout the world so why not them?" Infantino said agents were subjected to tighter rules in the United States. “Look at what happens in the USA. Often the USA is taken as an example but the USA is the homeland of the free market of laissez-faire. Everything is open, people do whatever they want. But these professions are regulated in a very stringent way. “You’ve got huge volumes and books that govern transfers and changes in clubs and agents. We’ve got these slim booklets here in Europe and in FIFA so we’ve got a bit of work to do. “We are talking about this with everyone – with clubs, leagues, federations and football players and agents. Hopefully this year we’ll be able to propose measures to further regulate this activity to protect everyone: footballers, clubs and agents themselves.”

FIFA to re-examine transfer rules for minors: Gianni Infantino

Chelsea put a tumultuous few days behind them and a smile back on manager <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Maurizio+Sarri">Maurizio Sarri</a>'s face as they revived their top-four hopes with a 2-0 victory over stuttering Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday.

Sarri has been under the immense pressure of late after his side's poor form and it seemed he was losing control at Wembley on Sunday when goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga refused to be substituted at the end of extra time against Manchester City.

Arrizabalaga was dropped by Sarri for the visit of third-placed Tottenham with Willy Caballero taking his place -- a move that could have backfired on the Italian.

As it turned out, Caballero did not have much to do and it was Tottenham keeper Hugo Lloris who became the fall guy.

First he was beaten from a tight angle by Pedro in the 57th minute and then he was jointly culpable in a comical own goal by Kieran Trippier late on.

From being talked about as title contenders a few days ago Tottenham have lost two league games in a row and now have the pack closing in below them in the battle for a top-four finish.

Chelsea remained in sixth spot, three points behind fourth-placed Arsenal having played a game less.

Tottenham are four ahead of Arsenal who they host on Saturday, and five in front of Manchester United.

Arrizabalaga's antics had overshadowed what was an impressive display by Chelsea against Manchester City when they were beaten in a penalty shoot-out.

Sarri said dropping him was a "message to the group" and it clearly hit home as Chelsea's players put in a shift.

"The performance was in line with the last one and fortunately the result was different -- but the performance was very similar to the one against Man City," Sarri said.

"I was sure my relationship with my players is really very good and in the last month better."

Chelsea began at a high-tempo and Gonzalo Higuain twice went close to giving them the lead -- first with a sliced shot against the post and then with a curler wide.

Tottenham's Harry Kane struggled to make an impression, letting his frustration boil over at one point.

Harry Winks did go close to giving Spurs the lead with a dipping shot against the crossbar.

But Tottenham lacked their usual conviction in attack and they fell behind when Pedro turned inside Toby Alderweireld before shooting past Lloris from an unpromising angle.

Pedro then showed his defensive qualities with a great tackle on Christian Eriksen as the Dane wriggled through.

Yet any hope of a Tottenham comeback was eradicated when Trippier and Lloris failed to communicate and Trippier's attempted back pass rolled into an unguarded net.

Tottenham did not have a shot on target and after Saturday's defeat at Burnley suddenly look vulnerable.

"It wasn't a great game to watch. Of course very, very disappointed but we move on," Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino said. "Two games and two defeats but now it's about being calm."

Chelsea put a tumultuous few days behind them and a smile back on manager Maurizio Sarri's face as they revived their top-four hopes with a 2-0 victory over stuttering Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday.

Chelsea put a tumultuous few days behind them and a smile back on manager Maurizio Sarri's face as they revived their top-four hopes with a 2-0 victory over stuttering Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday. Sarri has been under the immense pressure of late after his side's poor form and it seemed he was losing control at Wembley on Sunday when goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga refused to be substituted at the end of extra time against Manchester City. Arrizabalaga was dropped by Sarri for the visit of third-placed Tottenham with Willy Caballero taking his place -- a move that could have backfired on the Italian. As it turned out, Caballero did not have much to do and it was Tottenham keeper Hugo Lloris who became the fall guy. First he was beaten from a tight angle by Pedro in the 57th minute and then he was jointly culpable in a comical own goal by Kieran Trippier late on. From being talked about as title contenders a few days ago Tottenham have lost two league games in a row and now have the pack closing in below them in the battle for a top-four finish. Chelsea remained in sixth spot, three points behind fourth-placed Arsenal having played a game less. Tottenham are four ahead of Arsenal who they host on Saturday, and five in front of Manchester United. Arrizabalaga's antics had overshadowed what was an impressive display by Chelsea against Manchester City when they were beaten in a penalty shoot-out. Sarri said dropping him was a "message to the group" and it clearly hit home as Chelsea's players put in a shift. "The performance was in line with the last one and fortunately the result was different -- but the performance was very similar to the one against Man City," Sarri said. "I was sure my relationship with my players is really very good and in the last month better." Chelsea began at a high-tempo and Gonzalo Higuain twice went close to giving them the lead -- first with a sliced shot against the post and then with a curler wide. Tottenham's Harry Kane struggled to make an impression, letting his frustration boil over at one point. Harry Winks did go close to giving Spurs the lead with a dipping shot against the crossbar. But Tottenham lacked their usual conviction in attack and they fell behind when Pedro turned inside Toby Alderweireld before shooting past Lloris from an unpromising angle. Pedro then showed his defensive qualities with a great tackle on Christian Eriksen as the Dane wriggled through. Yet any hope of a Tottenham comeback was eradicated when Trippier and Lloris failed to communicate and Trippier's attempted back pass rolled into an unguarded net. Tottenham did not have a shot on target and after Saturday's defeat at Burnley suddenly look vulnerable. "It wasn't a great game to watch. Of course very, very disappointed but we move on," Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino said. "Two games and two defeats but now it's about being calm."

Kepa Arrizabalaga dropped as Chelsea beat Tottenham 2-0

Former Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho says the next club he joins must have a strong sense of "structural empathy" to help him cope with the demands of modern football, in which player power heavily influences the game.

The Portuguese coach, who was sacked by United after a 2-1/2 year spell last December, intends to return to the game before the start of next season but said he would only join a club that did not have "internal conflict".

Mourinho's third season at United was dominated by media reports of a rift with record signing Paul Pogba, before the owners pulled the plug on his tenure with the team sitting sixth in the Premier League.

"You now have a generation of players who are not just players but the whole package," the 56-year-old told the Telegraph.

"You have the player, the family, the agent, the entourage, the director of communication ... When you have a player you have all these distractions.

"And if there is no empathy in the structure of the club you get into so many contradictions that it is really, really difficult to work."

Since leading Porto to Champions League triumph in 2004, Mourinho has managed Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, and United, winning a total of 20 major trophies.

He said his next destination could be a longer-term project.

"If it is a club without ambition I wouldn't go," he added.

"That is my second item (of requirement). My first item is structural empathy. I want to work with people that I love. People I want to work with, that I am happy to work with, with whom I share the same ideas."

Former Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho says the next club he joins must have a strong sense of "structural empathy" to help him cope with the demands of modern football, in which player power heavily influences the game.

Former Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho says the next club he joins must have a strong sense of "structural empathy" to help him cope with the demands of modern football, in which player power heavily influences the game. The Portuguese coach, who was sacked by United after a 2-1/2 year spell last December, intends to return to the game before the start of next season but said he would only join a club that did not have "internal conflict". Mourinho's third season at United was dominated by media reports of a rift with record signing Paul Pogba, before the owners pulled the plug on his tenure with the team sitting sixth in the Premier League. "You now have a generation of players who are not just players but the whole package," the 56-year-old told the Telegraph. "You have the player, the family, the agent, the entourage, the director of communication ... When you have a player you have all these distractions. "And if there is no empathy in the structure of the club you get into so many contradictions that it is really, really difficult to work." Since leading Porto to Champions League triumph in 2004, Mourinho has managed Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, and United, winning a total of 20 major trophies. He said his next destination could be a longer-term project. "If it is a club without ambition I wouldn't go," he added. "That is my second item (of requirement). My first item is structural empathy. I want to work with people that I love. People I want to work with, that I am happy to work with, with whom I share the same ideas."

Jose Mourinho wants next club to have empathy as well as ambition

Chelsea have fined goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga one week's wages following his <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/it-was-a-big-misunderstanding-chelsea-coach-maurizio-sarri-on-kepa-row-199584">refusal to be substituted</a> in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-survives-defeats-chelsea-in-shootout-after-draw-in-regulation-time-199450">League Cup final</a> defeat by Manchester City at Wembley on Sunday.

Arrizabalaga appeared to be injured as he prevented City's Sergio Aguero from scoring in the closing moments of extra time, and manager Maurizio Sarri ordered his substitution before Chelsea went on to lose the showpiece match 4-3 on penalties.

But with the change already displayed to the stadium by the fourth official, and Chelsea's reserve keeper Willy Caballero ready to come on, Kepa insisted he was fit to carry on and face the penalty shootout -- to the visible anger of Sarri.

The Italian coach said after the match, which finished 0-0, that there had been a "big misunderstanding" because he thought Arrizabalaga had cramp.

On Monday Arrizabalaga said he had apologised to Sarri, his teammates and the fans, while Chelsea fined him for his actions.

"The club has made a decision to fine Kepa one week's wages and donate it to the Chelsea Foundation," the west London club said in a statement on their official website https://www.chelseafc.com/en/news/2019/2/25/kepa-arrizabalaga-and-maurizio-sarri-issue-follow-up-statements-.

Kepa and Sarri also issued statements to clarify their positions following a controversy which captured the headlines around the world.

"I have thought a lot more about yesterday’s events. Although there was a misunderstanding, on reflection, I made a big mistake with how I handled the situation," Kepa said.

"I wanted to take the time today to apologise fully and in person to the coach, to Willy, my team-mates and to the club. I have done this and now I want to offer the same apology to the fans.

"I will learn from this episode and will accept any punishment or discipline the club decides is appropriate."

Sarri said after the match he would discuss the matter with Arrizabalaga, who became the world's most expensive goalkeeper when he joined Chelsea for 80 million euros ($90.87 million) last year.

"Kepa and I have spoken about the incident," Sarri said in his statement on Monday. "It was a good conversation. There was a misunderstanding yesterday but he realises he made a big mistake in the way he reacted.

"He has apologised to me, his teammates and the club. It is up to the club if they want to discipline him according to the club rules, but for me this matter is now closed.

"The team performance as a whole was extremely positive and it is a shame to see how this incident has overshadowed our efforts in what was a very competitive Cup final.

"Everyone’s focus is now on the next game and we must all now put this behind us."

Chelsea next face London rivals Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League on Wednesday at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea have fined goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga one week's wages following his refusal to be substituted in the League Cup final defeat by Manchester City at Wembley on Sunday.

Chelsea have fined goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga one week's wages following his refusal to be substituted in the League Cup final defeat by Manchester City at Wembley on Sunday. Arrizabalaga appeared to be injured as he prevented City's Sergio Aguero from scoring in the closing moments of extra time, and manager Maurizio Sarri ordered his substitution before Chelsea went on to lose the showpiece match 4-3 on penalties. But with the change already displayed to the stadium by the fourth official, and Chelsea's reserve keeper Willy Caballero ready to come on, Kepa insisted he was fit to carry on and face the penalty shootout -- to the visible anger of Sarri. The Italian coach said after the match, which finished 0-0, that there had been a "big misunderstanding" because he thought Arrizabalaga had cramp. On Monday Arrizabalaga said he had apologised to Sarri, his teammates and the fans, while Chelsea fined him for his actions. "The club has made a decision to fine Kepa one week's wages and donate it to the Chelsea Foundation," the west London club said in a statement on their official website https://www.chelseafc.com/en/news/2019/2/25/kepa-arrizabalaga-and-maurizio-sarri-issue-follow-up-statements-. Kepa and Sarri also issued statements to clarify their positions following a controversy which captured the headlines around the world. "I have thought a lot more about yesterday’s events. Although there was a misunderstanding, on reflection, I made a big mistake with how I handled the situation," Kepa said. "I wanted to take the time today to apologise fully and in person to the coach, to Willy, my team-mates and to the club. I have done this and now I want to offer the same apology to the fans. "I will learn from this episode and will accept any punishment or discipline the club decides is appropriate." Sarri said after the match he would discuss the matter with Arrizabalaga, who became the world's most expensive goalkeeper when he joined Chelsea for 80 million euros ($90.87 million) last year. "Kepa and I have spoken about the incident," Sarri said in his statement on Monday. "It was a good conversation. There was a misunderstanding yesterday but he realises he made a big mistake in the way he reacted. "He has apologised to me, his teammates and the club. It is up to the club if they want to discipline him according to the club rules, but for me this matter is now closed. "The team performance as a whole was extremely positive and it is a shame to see how this incident has overshadowed our efforts in what was a very competitive Cup final. "Everyone’s focus is now on the next game and we must all now put this behind us." Chelsea next face London rivals Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League on Wednesday at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga fined one week's wages over Wembley row

Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri said that it was a big misunderstanding following goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga controversy in Carabao Cup final that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-survives-defeats-chelsea-in-shootout-after-draw-in-regulation-time-199450">Manchester City won 4-3</a> on penalties.&nbsp;

When Sarri saw goal Kepa Arrizabalaga struggling with cramp, he summoned Willy Caballero from the bench but Kepa <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-goalkeeper-kepa-arrizabalaga-ignored-coach-maurizio-sarris-decision-to-be-subbed-199479">ignored Sarri's decision</a> and refused to leave the field.&nbsp;

Kepa,&nbsp;the world's most expensive goalkeeper, said&nbsp;that he is <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/didnt-intend-to-disobey-coach-or-his-decisions-says-chelsea-goalkeeper-kepa-arrizabalaga-199507">"upset and sad"</a> for not being able to take the title.&nbsp;

However, Sarri later explained that it was a "big misunderstanding". He said, "I understood that he had a cramp. And so, I didn't want the goalkeeper to go into penalties in that physical condition."

"I realised the situation only after three, four minutes when the doctor arrived back to the bench. And in the meantime, I wanted (Willy) Caballero on the pitch."

"The goalkeeper (Kepa Arrizabalaga) wanted only to let me know that he was in (good) condition to go to the penalties."

"So, it was only a big misunderstanding. Kepa (Arrizabalaga) was right, but in the wrong way I think," he added.&nbsp;

On being asked whether Kepa will be punished, "No, no. I want to talk with him. Because he needs to understand that for the misunderstanding we can get in trouble."&nbsp;

"I think that I have only to explain exactly the situation to Kepa, without any other problem," he added.&nbsp;

Kepa, received treatment for an injury in the closing stages but also has a worse record of saving penalties than former City stopper Willy Caballero, who Sarri was trying to introduce.&nbsp;

Chelsea went on to lose the shootout with Arrizabalaga beaten by four of Manchester City's spot kicks, including Raheem Sterling's winning shot - but he did pull of an impressive save to deny Leroy Sane.

Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri said that it was a big misunderstanding following goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga controversy in Carabao Cup final that Manchester City won 4-3 on penalties.

Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri said that it was a big misunderstanding following goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga controversy in Carabao Cup final that Manchester City won 4-3 on penalties. When Sarri saw goal Kepa Arrizabalaga struggling with cramp, he summoned Willy Caballero from the bench but Kepa ignored Sarri's decision and refused to leave the field. Kepa, the world's most expensive goalkeeper, said that he is "upset and sad" for not being able to take the title. However, Sarri later explained that it was a "big misunderstanding". He said, "I understood that he had a cramp. And so, I didn't want the goalkeeper to go into penalties in that physical condition." "I realised the situation only after three, four minutes when the doctor arrived back to the bench. And in the meantime, I wanted (Willy) Caballero on the pitch." "The goalkeeper (Kepa Arrizabalaga) wanted only to let me know that he was in (good) condition to go to the penalties." "So, it was only a big misunderstanding. Kepa (Arrizabalaga) was right, but in the wrong way I think," he added. On being asked whether Kepa will be punished, "No, no. I want to talk with him. Because he needs to understand that for the misunderstanding we can get in trouble." "I think that I have only to explain exactly the situation to Kepa, without any other problem," he added. Kepa, received treatment for an injury in the closing stages but also has a worse record of saving penalties than former City stopper Willy Caballero, who Sarri was trying to introduce. Chelsea went on to lose the shootout with Arrizabalaga beaten by four of Manchester City's spot kicks, including Raheem Sterling's winning shot - but he did pull of an impressive save to deny Leroy Sane.

'It was a big misunderstanding': Chelsea coach Maurizio Sarri on Kepa row

Manchester City vs Chelsea: Things we learned from the League Cup final

Chelsea's goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga said that he is "upset and sad" for not being able to take the title as&nbsp;Manchester City&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-survives-defeats-chelsea-in-shootout-after-draw-in-regulation-time-199450">defeated Chelsea 4-3</a>&nbsp;on penalties to win the Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday.&nbsp;

The match&nbsp;was hit by a controversy surrounding the goalkeeper when he <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-goalkeeper-kepa-arrizabalaga-ignored-coach-maurizio-sarris-decision-to-be-subbed-199479">ignored manager Maurizio Sarri</a>'s decision to substitute him before the penalty shootout.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The 24-year-old responded to the issue saying he did not stage a mutiny against coach Sarri.&nbsp;

He said, "At no time has it been my intention to disobey the coach or any of his decisions," Kepa said on Twitter.

"I regret how the end of the match has been portrayed."

"I think everything has been misunderstood in the heat of the final part of the match. My intention was to express that I was in a good position to continue."&nbsp;

"I have full respect for the coach and his authority," he added.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://t.co/y1moLEZHCq">pic.twitter.com/y1moLEZHCq</a>
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After the match, he told reporters, "I don’t know how it went out, it is not the best image."&nbsp;

"I have spoken with the boss. I think it was misunderstood.

"I understand that on television, on social media, they’re talking about this but I am here to explain it, to say that it wasn’t my intention to go against the manager.&nbsp;

"We have spoken now, and I was only trying to say I’m fine. He thought I wasn’t fine. It was in tense moments, with a lot happening

"Of course I did [see my number go up on the digital board]. But because of that, it was until the medics had got back to the bench to explain I was fine, that I could continue. It wasn’t that I was refusing to be substituted, it was a way of trying to tell the bench that I was fine.

"I think it was just misunderstood."

Kepa, the world's most expensive goalkeeper, received treatment for an injury in the closing stages but also has a worse record of saving penalties than former City stopper Willy Caballero, who Sarri was trying to introduce.&nbsp;

Chelsea went on to lose the shootout with Arrizabalaga beaten by four of Manchester City's spot kicks, including Raheem Sterling's winning shot - but he did pull of an impressive save to deny Leroy Sane.

Chelsea's goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga said that he is "upset and sad" for not being able to take the title as Manchester City defeated Chelsea 4-3 on penalties to win the Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday.

Chelsea's goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga said that he is "upset and sad" for not being able to take the title as Manchester City defeated Chelsea 4-3 on penalties to win the Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday. The match was hit by a controversy surrounding the goalkeeper when he ignored manager Maurizio Sarri's decision to substitute him before the penalty shootout. The 24-year-old responded to the issue saying he did not stage a mutiny against coach Sarri. He said, "At no time has it been my intention to disobey the coach or any of his decisions," Kepa said on Twitter. "I regret how the end of the match has been portrayed." "I think everything has been misunderstood in the heat of the final part of the match. My intention was to express that I was in a good position to continue." "I have full respect for the coach and his authority," he added. pic.twitter.com/y1moLEZHCq — kepa Arrizabalaga (@kepa_46) February 24, 2019 × After the match, he told reporters, "I don’t know how it went out, it is not the best image." "I have spoken with the boss. I think it was misunderstood. "I understand that on television, on social media, they’re talking about this but I am here to explain it, to say that it wasn’t my intention to go against the manager. "We have spoken now, and I was only trying to say I’m fine. He thought I wasn’t fine. It was in tense moments, with a lot happening "Of course I did [see my number go up on the digital board]. But because of that, it was until the medics had got back to the bench to explain I was fine, that I could continue. It wasn’t that I was refusing to be substituted, it was a way of trying to tell the bench that I was fine. "I think it was just misunderstood." Kepa, the world's most expensive goalkeeper, received treatment for an injury in the closing stages but also has a worse record of saving penalties than former City stopper Willy Caballero, who Sarri was trying to introduce. Chelsea went on to lose the shootout with Arrizabalaga beaten by four of Manchester City's spot kicks, including Raheem Sterling's winning shot - but he did pull of an impressive save to deny Leroy Sane.

Didn't intend to disobey coach or his decisions, says Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga

Manchester City star Vincent Kompany admitted he was stunned to see&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;goalkeeper <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-goalkeeper-kepa-arrizabalaga-ignored-coach-maurizio-sarris-decision-to-be-subbed-199479">Kepa Arrizabalaga refuse to be substituted</a> during an astonishing League Cup final row with Blues boss Maurizio Sarri.&nbsp;

Kepa was set to be replaced in the final moments of extra-time after going down with cramp for the second time in the Wembley clash.&nbsp;

But, as Sarri prepared to send on reserve keeper Willy Caballero, Kepa signalled that he was fit to carry on.&nbsp;

Sarri insisted Kepa come off, but the Spaniard wouldn't budge, leading to a furious meltdown from the&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;boss, who briefly stormed down the tunnel before returning to his post.&nbsp;

The match finished 0-0 and City went onto <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-survives-defeats-chelsea-in-shootout-after-draw-in-regulation-time-199450">win 4-3 on penalties</a>, despite Kepa saving Leroy Sane's effort in the shoot-out.&nbsp;

Kompany, who came on at half-time for the injured Aymeric Laporte, said he had never seen anything like it.&nbsp;

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Here's to you, <a href="https://twitter.com/VincentKompany?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VincentKompany</a>... 💙 
 
🏆 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/mancity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#mancity</a> <a href="https://t.co/BLrb4vnyw0">pic.twitter.com/BLrb4vnyw0</a>
— Manchester City (@ManCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManCity/status/1099783173569957888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Of course I've never seen it. I wish I could do it every now and then when I don't want to get subbed off," Kompany said.&nbsp;

Kompany said he was glad not to face Caballero, who helped City win the 2016 League Cup final by saving three penalties in a shoot-out against Liverpool.&nbsp;

"I know how good Willy is on penalties, when we won this competition against Liverpool he was tremendous, he won the penalties for us and it would be another mind game to be played," Kompany said.&nbsp;

"It didn't happen and the confidence was there to score the penalties."&nbsp;

Former&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;captain John Terry, watching the match as a pundit for Sky Sports, called on Sarri to resolve the situation immediately.&nbsp;

"It will be interesting to see if Kepa plays the next game. If I was in the dressing room I would expect the manager to come in and deal with it straight away," Terry said.&nbsp;

Manchester City star Vincent Kompany admitted he was stunned to see Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga refuse to be substituted during an astonishing League Cup final row with Blues boss Maurizio Sarri.

Manchester City star Vincent Kompany admitted he was stunned to see Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga refuse to be substituted during an astonishing League Cup final row with Blues boss Maurizio Sarri. Kepa was set to be replaced in the final moments of extra-time after going down with cramp for the second time in the Wembley clash. But, as Sarri prepared to send on reserve keeper Willy Caballero, Kepa signalled that he was fit to carry on. Sarri insisted Kepa come off, but the Spaniard wouldn't budge, leading to a furious meltdown from the Chelsea boss, who briefly stormed down the tunnel before returning to his post. The match finished 0-0 and City went onto win 4-3 on penalties, despite Kepa saving Leroy Sane's effort in the shoot-out. Kompany, who came on at half-time for the injured Aymeric Laporte, said he had never seen anything like it. Here's to you, @VincentKompany... 💙 🏆 #mancity pic.twitter.com/BLrb4vnyw0 — Manchester City (@ManCity) February 24, 2019 × "Of course I've never seen it. I wish I could do it every now and then when I don't want to get subbed off," Kompany said. Kompany said he was glad not to face Caballero, who helped City win the 2016 League Cup final by saving three penalties in a shoot-out against Liverpool. "I know how good Willy is on penalties, when we won this competition against Liverpool he was tremendous, he won the penalties for us and it would be another mind game to be played," Kompany said. "It didn't happen and the confidence was there to score the penalties." Former Chelsea captain John Terry, watching the match as a pundit for Sky Sports, called on Sarri to resolve the situation immediately. "It will be interesting to see if Kepa plays the next game. If I was in the dressing room I would expect the manager to come in and deal with it straight away," Terry said.

'I wish I could refuse to come off': Vincent Kompany mocks Kepa row

Manchester City <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-survives-defeats-chelsea-in-shootout-after-draw-in-regulation-time-199450">defeated Chelsea 4-3</a> on penalties to win the Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, in a match where Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri dealt with controversy.&nbsp;

The game had ended in a goalless draw after 90 minutes and half an hour of extra time and entered into penalties.&nbsp;

When Sarri saw goal Kepa Arrizabalaga struggling with cramp, he summoned Willy Caballero from the bench.&nbsp;

However, the goalkeeper ignored manager Sarri's decision and&nbsp;refused to leave the field.&nbsp;

Watch the video here:

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Sarri tried to sub off Chelsea's goalkeeper, Kepa...but he refused to leave, and Sarri flipped out 😳 
 
(via <a href="https://twitter.com/SkyFootball?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SkyFootball</a>) <a href="https://t.co/cBWodJDyw3">pic.twitter.com/cBWodJDyw3</a>
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) <a href="https://twitter.com/BleacherReport/status/1099749321199767552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Kepa, the world's most expensive goalkeeper, received treatment for an injury in the closing stages but also has a worse record of saving penalties than former City stopper Willy Caballero, who Sarri was trying to introduce.&nbsp;

Chelsea went on to lose the shootout with Arrizabalaga beaten by four of Manchester City's spot kicks, including Raheem Sterling's winning shot - but he did pull of an impressive save to deny Leroy Sane.

Manchester City defeated Chelsea 4-3 on penalties to win the Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, in a match where Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri dealt with controversy.

Manchester City defeated Chelsea 4-3 on penalties to win the Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, in a match where Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri dealt with controversy. The game had ended in a goalless draw after 90 minutes and half an hour of extra time and entered into penalties. When Sarri saw goal Kepa Arrizabalaga struggling with cramp, he summoned Willy Caballero from the bench. However, the goalkeeper ignored manager Sarri's decision and refused to leave the field. Watch the video here: Sarri tried to sub off Chelsea's goalkeeper, Kepa...but he refused to leave, and Sarri flipped out 😳 (via @SkyFootball) pic.twitter.com/cBWodJDyw3 — Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) February 24, 2019 × Kepa, the world's most expensive goalkeeper, received treatment for an injury in the closing stages but also has a worse record of saving penalties than former City stopper Willy Caballero, who Sarri was trying to introduce. Chelsea went on to lose the shootout with Arrizabalaga beaten by four of Manchester City's spot kicks, including Raheem Sterling's winning shot - but he did pull of an impressive save to deny Leroy Sane.

Watch: Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga ignores coach Maurizio Sarri's decision to be subbed

A more pragmatic than normal Manchester City, which for many minutes was at the mercy of Chelsea, managed to survive their Sunday match at Wembley Stadium, battling their rivals to a scoreless draw in regulation and 30 minutes of extra time but then prevailing 4-3 in a shootout to win the English Football League Cup final. 
 
Just prior to the shootout - during which Raheem Sterling scored the winning tally for Man City - Chelsea's Spanish goaltender, Kepa Arrizabalaga, refused to leave the pitch even though coach Maurizio Sarri had decided to replace him with Willy Caballero, a virtually unprecedented flouting of a manager's will. 
 
With the win, Man City captured its first trophy of the campaign, but three others are still pending as the squad is just one point in back of Liverpool, who leads the Premier League, and has already gotten into the elimination stages of the Champions League and FA cup quarterfinals. 
 
This is Man City's sixth English Football League Cup title 
 
It was during the second 15-minute period of extra time that it looked like Arrizabalaga had injured his hand fighting for a loose ball, whereupon Sarri decided to replace him. But the goalkeeper waved off the substitution and repeatedly signaled to the coach that he was uninjured and intended to keep playing, bringing a look of mingled shock, frustration and rage to Sarri's face. 
 
Two weeks ago, Chelsea was smashed by City 6-0 in Premier League competition, and they played carefully and cautiously all evening on Sunday. 
 
Scoring for Pep Guardiola's City during the shootout were Ilkay Gundogan, Sergio Aguero and Bernardo Silva, although Arrizabalaga saved Leroy Sane's shot, before Sterling delivered his winning strike. 
 
Meanwhile, for Chelsea, Ederson saved Jorginho's penalty kick and David Luiz ricocheted one off the post, although Cesar Azplicueta, Emerson and Eden Hazard did manage to sink their shots. 
 
The big question after Arrizabalaga's insubordination and Sarri's backing down is now what will become of the Italian manager and the team, but during the match Sarri implemented a smart strategy all the way through. 
 
It was Bernardo Silva who shone brightly for City, and - although Fernandinho was injured and the team was not at peak performance - they still managed to find the combination to bottle up Chelsea in their half of the pitch during regulation and extra time and to sink the penalty kicks when it counted. 
 
During the match, City retained the ball 61 percent of the time, firing 13 shots (only 3 of which were on target) to Chelsea's 7 (none of which were). Meanwhile, City committed 22 fouls to Chelsea's 7. 
 
Regardless of anything else, however, it is apparent that the match will be remembered for the unusual and potentially poisonous Arrizabalaga-Sarri confrontation.

A more pragmatic than normal Manchester City, which for many minutes was at the mercy of Chelsea, managed to survive their Sunday match at Wembley Stadium, battling their rivals to a scoreless draw in regulation and 30 minutes of extra time but then prevailing 4-3 in a shootout to win the English Football League Cup final.

A more pragmatic than normal Manchester City, which for many minutes was at the mercy of Chelsea, managed to survive their Sunday match at Wembley Stadium, battling their rivals to a scoreless draw in regulation and 30 minutes of extra time but then prevailing 4-3 in a shootout to win the English Football League Cup final. Just prior to the shootout - during which Raheem Sterling scored the winning tally for Man City - Chelsea's Spanish goaltender, Kepa Arrizabalaga, refused to leave the pitch even though coach Maurizio Sarri had decided to replace him with Willy Caballero, a virtually unprecedented flouting of a manager's will. With the win, Man City captured its first trophy of the campaign, but three others are still pending as the squad is just one point in back of Liverpool, who leads the Premier League, and has already gotten into the elimination stages of the Champions League and FA cup quarterfinals. This is Man City's sixth English Football League Cup title It was during the second 15-minute period of extra time that it looked like Arrizabalaga had injured his hand fighting for a loose ball, whereupon Sarri decided to replace him. But the goalkeeper waved off the substitution and repeatedly signaled to the coach that he was uninjured and intended to keep playing, bringing a look of mingled shock, frustration and rage to Sarri's face. Two weeks ago, Chelsea was smashed by City 6-0 in Premier League competition, and they played carefully and cautiously all evening on Sunday. Scoring for Pep Guardiola's City during the shootout were Ilkay Gundogan, Sergio Aguero and Bernardo Silva, although Arrizabalaga saved Leroy Sane's shot, before Sterling delivered his winning strike. Meanwhile, for Chelsea, Ederson saved Jorginho's penalty kick and David Luiz ricocheted one off the post, although Cesar Azplicueta, Emerson and Eden Hazard did manage to sink their shots. The big question after Arrizabalaga's insubordination and Sarri's backing down is now what will become of the Italian manager and the team, but during the match Sarri implemented a smart strategy all the way through. It was Bernardo Silva who shone brightly for City, and - although Fernandinho was injured and the team was not at peak performance - they still managed to find the combination to bottle up Chelsea in their half of the pitch during regulation and extra time and to sink the penalty kicks when it counted. During the match, City retained the ball 61 percent of the time, firing 13 shots (only 3 of which were on target) to Chelsea's 7 (none of which were). Meanwhile, City committed 22 fouls to Chelsea's 7. Regardless of anything else, however, it is apparent that the match will be remembered for the unusual and potentially poisonous Arrizabalaga-Sarri confrontation.

Manchester City survives, defeats Chelsea in shootout after draw in regulation time

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-survives-defeats-chelsea-in-shootout-after-draw-in-regulation-time-199450">Manchester City beat Chelsea </a>4-3 on penalties to win the Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, however, the match ended with controversies and misunderstandings.&nbsp;

Chelsea's Italian coach Maurizio Sarri <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/it-was-a-big-misunderstanding-chelsea-coach-maurizio-sarri-on-kepa-row-199584">dealt with a controversy</a> surrounding goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga.&nbsp;

But the mood lightened up when Sarri was lost in a funny translation while explaining the incident to the reporters.&nbsp;

During the post-match&nbsp;press conference, he said, "Of course, as I said before, he [referring to&nbsp;Kepa Arrizabalaga] was right for the motivation but not for the conduct... not condom."&nbsp;

Sarri ended the press conference by clarifying that he had said 'conduct' in relation to the Kepa incident and not 'condom'.&nbsp;

In the match, watching Arrizabalaga appearing to struggle with cramp, and with a penalty shootout looming to settle the important clash, Sarri summoned Willy Caballero from the bench.&nbsp;

But controversially, Arrizabalaga refused to leave the field.&nbsp;

The goalkeeper said that he is "upset and sad" for not being able to take the title and did not stage a mutiny against the&nbsp;coach.&nbsp;

Chelsea went on to lose the shootout with Arrizabalaga beaten by four of Manchester City's spot kicks, including Raheem Sterling's winning shot - but he did pull of an impressive save to deny Leroy Sane.&nbsp;

The game had ended in a goalless draw after 90 minutes and half an hour of extra time.

Manchester City beat Chelsea 4-3 on penalties to win the Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, however, the match ended with controversies and misunderstandings.

Manchester City beat Chelsea 4-3 on penalties to win the Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, however, the match ended with controversies and misunderstandings. Chelsea's Italian coach Maurizio Sarri dealt with a controversy surrounding goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga. But the mood lightened up when Sarri was lost in a funny translation while explaining the incident to the reporters. During the post-match press conference, he said, "Of course, as I said before, he [referring to Kepa Arrizabalaga] was right for the motivation but not for the conduct... not condom." Sarri ended the press conference by clarifying that he had said 'conduct' in relation to the Kepa incident and not 'condom'. In the match, watching Arrizabalaga appearing to struggle with cramp, and with a penalty shootout looming to settle the important clash, Sarri summoned Willy Caballero from the bench. But controversially, Arrizabalaga refused to leave the field. The goalkeeper said that he is "upset and sad" for not being able to take the title and did not stage a mutiny against the coach. Chelsea went on to lose the shootout with Arrizabalaga beaten by four of Manchester City's spot kicks, including Raheem Sterling's winning shot - but he did pull of an impressive save to deny Leroy Sane. The game had ended in a goalless draw after 90 minutes and half an hour of extra time.

Chelsea's Italian coach Maurizio Sarri lost in funny translation

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