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

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 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

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

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

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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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>
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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 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

Manchester City manager <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Pep+Guardiola">Pep Guardiola</a> has empathised with Chelsea counterpart Maurizio Sarri difficult situation at the London club.&nbsp;

Lately, Sarri's future at Chelsea has come into question after his side dropped to sixth in the Premier League and recent results have put the Italian coach under pressure.&nbsp;

However, Guardiola, who himself endured struggles of his own during his first season in England, admitted to being shocked at how little time coaches are given at Chelsea to implement their ideas before being sacked.&nbsp;

While speaking on Friday ahead of Sunday's Carabao Cup final, Guardiola said, "The situation (of Sarri) is a bit different in terms of my first years (at City). The club never doubted me. It was never released by the media that they will sack me if I lose this or that game. It never happened."

"So I was surprised when (Antonio) Conte won the title and then lost one or two games in the beginning of the season, people started saying he will be sacked," he added.&nbsp;

The former Barcelona boss said, "The situation is completely different. Whether we lost at Chelsea or won at home, I have always thought highly about Sarri."&nbsp;

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Wembley on his mind... 
 
Get ready to hear from Pep ahead of the <a href="https://twitter.com/Carabao_Cup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Carabao_Cup</a> Final 
 
💬 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/mancity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#mancity</a> <a href="https://t.co/IcYOSWo0z1">pic.twitter.com/IcYOSWo0z1</a>
— Manchester City (@ManCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManCity/status/1098933480577290241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has empathised with Chelsea counterpart Maurizio Sarri difficult situation at the London club. Lately, Sarri's future at Chelsea has come into question after his side dropped to sixth in the Premier League and recent results have put the Italian coach under pressure.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has empathised with Chelsea counterpart Maurizio Sarri difficult situation at the London club. Lately, Sarri's future at Chelsea has come into question after his side dropped to sixth in the Premier League and recent results have put the Italian coach under pressure. However, Guardiola, who himself endured struggles of his own during his first season in England, admitted to being shocked at how little time coaches are given at Chelsea to implement their ideas before being sacked. While speaking on Friday ahead of Sunday's Carabao Cup final, Guardiola said, "The situation (of Sarri) is a bit different in terms of my first years (at City). The club never doubted me. It was never released by the media that they will sack me if I lose this or that game. It never happened." "So I was surprised when (Antonio) Conte won the title and then lost one or two games in the beginning of the season, people started saying he will be sacked," he added. The former Barcelona boss said, "The situation is completely different. Whether we lost at Chelsea or won at home, I have always thought highly about Sarri." Wembley on his mind... Get ready to hear from Pep ahead of the @Carabao_Cup Final 💬 #mancity pic.twitter.com/IcYOSWo0z1 — Manchester City (@ManCity) February 22, 2019 ×

Pep Guardiola defends Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri in light of sacking rumours

"Football is based on results, so if you don't get results, you're getting pressure," said Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger referring to boss <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Maurizio+Sarri">Maurizio Sarri</a>.&nbsp;

Lately, Sarri's future in London has come into question after his side dropped to sixth in the Premier League, however, the defender has said that Blues are still in the race.&nbsp;

"First of all we are still also in the race in the Premier League for top four, so it's not that we are just focusing on this competition. No, we are focusing also on the Premier League," said&nbsp;Rudiger.&nbsp;

Chelsea booked their place in the last 16 of the UEFA Europa League after defeating visitors Malmo 3-0 on Thursday for a 5-1 aggregate victory in the round of 32 clash.&nbsp;

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/ToniRuediger?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ToniRuediger</a> yesterday... 💙 <a href="https://t.co/ZlrHjRmkMs">pic.twitter.com/ZlrHjRmkMs</a>
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChelseaFC/status/1098844589300072448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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But despite the win, Rudiger said coach Sarri is under pressure following recent heavy defeats to Manchester City and Manchester United.&nbsp;

Although the result at against Malmo eased some of the pressure on manager Maurizio Sarri and kept Chelsea on target to win the Europa League for the second time in the space of seven seasons.&nbsp;

"It's good because, the recent results were not in our favour, so we're happy to go to another round and we are still in this competition. It's good," added Rudiger.&nbsp;

"Football is based on results, so if you don't get results, you're getting pressure," said Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger referring to boss Maurizio Sarri. Lately, Sarri's future in London has come into question after his side dropped to sixth in the Premier League, however, the defender has said that Blues are still in the race.

"Football is based on results, so if you don't get results, you're getting pressure," said Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger referring to boss Maurizio Sarri. Lately, Sarri's future in London has come into question after his side dropped to sixth in the Premier League, however, the defender has said that Blues are still in the race. "First of all we are still also in the race in the Premier League for top four, so it's not that we are just focusing on this competition. No, we are focusing also on the Premier League," said Rudiger. Chelsea booked their place in the last 16 of the UEFA Europa League after defeating visitors Malmo 3-0 on Thursday for a 5-1 aggregate victory in the round of 32 clash. .@ToniRuediger yesterday... 💙 pic.twitter.com/ZlrHjRmkMs — Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) February 22, 2019 × But despite the win, Rudiger said coach Sarri is under pressure following recent heavy defeats to Manchester City and Manchester United. Although the result at against Malmo eased some of the pressure on manager Maurizio Sarri and kept Chelsea on target to win the Europa League for the second time in the space of seven seasons. "It's good because, the recent results were not in our favour, so we're happy to go to another round and we are still in this competition. It's good," added Rudiger.

Antonio Rudiger admits Maurizio Sarri is under pressure despite Chelsea win

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Maurizio+Sarri">Maurizio Sarri</a> insists he isn't worried about being sacked as Chelsea manager despite his troubled side's lacklustre FA Cup surrender against Manchester United.

Sarri faces a fight to save his job after FA Cup holders Chelsea crashed to a 2-0 fifth round defeat at Stamford Bridge on Monday.

Ander Herrera headed United into the lead from Paul Pogba's cross in the 31st minute.

France star Pogba doubled United's advantage on the stroke of half-time when he met Marcus Rashford's cross with a diving header.

Sarri endured chants of "you don't know what you're doing" and "you're getting sacked in the morning" as furious Chelsea fans showed their frustration at the club's fifth defeat in their last 10 games.

Chelsea's stars, publicly criticised by their manager on several occasions this term, hardly looked to be battling to keep the Italian as they failed to muster a shot on target after the 11th minute.

Sarri's fragile relationship with his players, combined with the mutinous atmosphere among supporters, increased the feeling that the former Napoli boss might not survive until the end of his first season with Chelsea.

Demanding Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has acted quickly in the past when managers have been perceived to have lost the support of the squad.

But Sarri is adamant he isn't concerned about his perilous position and he claimed he is solely focused on salvaging his club's turbulent season.

Asked if he was worried Abramovich might be ready to wield the axe, Sarri said: "It's not my problem.

"I was only worried about my position when I was in League 2 in Italy, not now.

"I am worried about the results, not about the fans.&nbsp;Of course I can understand the situation.&nbsp;

"I can understand our fans, because the result wasn't really good. We are out of the FA Cup."

Following widespread reports that Sarri's players are underwhelmed by his stubborn refusal to change his tactics, the 60-year-old did make the alarming admission that he wasn't certain he still had their backing.&nbsp;

"Of course I'm not sure, but I think so. I think the situation with the players is very good in terms of our relationship but that's not so important," he said.

"What's important is to play and get good results."

Sarri taunted

Chelsea supporters called for their club's former legend Frank Lampard, now in charge at Derby, to be hired and directed foul-mouthed abuse at Sarri, who suffered chants of "F*** Sarri-ball" in a scathing reference to his failing tactics.

"Not really very well, but sometimes yes. For everything there is the first time," he said when quizzed on if he heard the taunts from his own fans.&nbsp;

Sarri believes his situation will be improved significantly if Chelsea can string together a winning run, starting with Thursday's Europa League last 32 second leg against Malmo and the League Cup final against Manchester City on Sunday.

"It's really very easy. If we are able to win three or four matches in a row, it will be easy. Of course it's difficult to win five matches in a row," he said with a curious smirk that suggested he didn't really believe his own outward optimism.

"We need of course more aggression, more determination in the situation inside our box and inside the opposing box.

"My job is to work with my players to try and improve in a few days because we conceded the second goal without determination or aggression.

"The difference was there. We played 78 balls in the opposing box and United only 16 balls our box. We are supposed to win."

Having previously questioned whether his players understood his football philosophy, Sarri repeated that complaint.

"Not completely at the moment because, especially in a situation like the second half, we have to move the ball faster mentally and materially," he said.

"We need more movements without the ball and less individual actions."

Maurizio Sarri insists he isn't worried about being sacked as Chelsea manager despite his troubled side's lacklustre FA Cup surrender against Manchester United. Sarri faces a fight to save his job after FA Cup holders Chelsea crashed to a 2-0 fifth round defeat at Stamford Bridge on Monday.

Maurizio Sarri insists he isn't worried about being sacked as Chelsea manager despite his troubled side's lacklustre FA Cup surrender against Manchester United. Sarri faces a fight to save his job after FA Cup holders Chelsea crashed to a 2-0 fifth round defeat at Stamford Bridge on Monday. Ander Herrera headed United into the lead from Paul Pogba's cross in the 31st minute. France star Pogba doubled United's advantage on the stroke of half-time when he met Marcus Rashford's cross with a diving header. Sarri endured chants of "you don't know what you're doing" and "you're getting sacked in the morning" as furious Chelsea fans showed their frustration at the club's fifth defeat in their last 10 games. Chelsea's stars, publicly criticised by their manager on several occasions this term, hardly looked to be battling to keep the Italian as they failed to muster a shot on target after the 11th minute. Sarri's fragile relationship with his players, combined with the mutinous atmosphere among supporters, increased the feeling that the former Napoli boss might not survive until the end of his first season with Chelsea. Demanding Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has acted quickly in the past when managers have been perceived to have lost the support of the squad. But Sarri is adamant he isn't concerned about his perilous position and he claimed he is solely focused on salvaging his club's turbulent season. Asked if he was worried Abramovich might be ready to wield the axe, Sarri said: "It's not my problem. "I was only worried about my position when I was in League 2 in Italy, not now. "I am worried about the results, not about the fans. Of course I can understand the situation. "I can understand our fans, because the result wasn't really good. We are out of the FA Cup." Following widespread reports that Sarri's players are underwhelmed by his stubborn refusal to change his tactics, the 60-year-old did make the alarming admission that he wasn't certain he still had their backing. "Of course I'm not sure, but I think so. I think the situation with the players is very good in terms of our relationship but that's not so important," he said. "What's important is to play and get good results." Sarri taunted Chelsea supporters called for their club's former legend Frank Lampard, now in charge at Derby, to be hired and directed foul-mouthed abuse at Sarri, who suffered chants of "F*** Sarri-ball" in a scathing reference to his failing tactics. "Not really very well, but sometimes yes. For everything there is the first time," he said when quizzed on if he heard the taunts from his own fans. Sarri believes his situation will be improved significantly if Chelsea can string together a winning run, starting with Thursday's Europa League last 32 second leg against Malmo and the League Cup final against Manchester City on Sunday. "It's really very easy. If we are able to win three or four matches in a row, it will be easy. Of course it's difficult to win five matches in a row," he said with a curious smirk that suggested he didn't really believe his own outward optimism. "We need of course more aggression, more determination in the situation inside our box and inside the opposing box. "My job is to work with my players to try and improve in a few days because we conceded the second goal without determination or aggression. "The difference was there. We played 78 balls in the opposing box and United only 16 balls our box. We are supposed to win." Having previously questioned whether his players understood his football philosophy, Sarri repeated that complaint. "Not completely at the moment because, especially in a situation like the second half, we have to move the ball faster mentally and materially," he said. "We need more movements without the ball and less individual actions."

'I'm not worried': Under-fire Sarri doesn't fear the sack

Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri was relieved as his side <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-edge-out-malmo-as-arsenal-suffer-europa-league-setback-197546">claimed a 2-1 victory at Malmo</a> in the Europa League last-32 first leg to ease some of the pressure on beleaguered coach Sarri.&nbsp;

After watching his side crumble in a 6-0 defeat at Premier League rival Manchester City on Sunday, Sarri was looking for a response in Malmo.&nbsp;

"I am happy with the confidence, it wasn't easy to play with this confidence after the last match."&nbsp;

"In the last period we have had the problem of the up and down. Up and down, up and down because 4-0 (defeat to Bournemouth), 5-0 for us (win versus Huddersfield Town), 6-0 (defeat to Manchester City)," said Maurizio Sarri.&nbsp;

"We need to have continuity, consistency I think in the mental condition (in order) to be able to approach every match with the same level of determination. With the same level of application, with the same level of attention," Sarri said as he hopes this win can help the Blues find consistency.&nbsp;

"We need consistency to approach every match in the same way. It's not easy but we have to try," he said.&nbsp;

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‘I am happy because we played with a very good level of confidence, and that was not easy after the last match.'
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChelseaFC/status/1096324738022920192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Chelsea had taken a 2-0 lead before the hour mark in the first leg but a quick Malmo counter-attack 10 minutes from time allowed the Swedish side to go into the return leg with a glimmer of hope.&nbsp;

"If we concede a goal like this to a team like Manchester City or United or Tottenham, then you risk conceding three goals in 10 minutes," Sarri told reporters.&nbsp;

Sarri named a strong team, although he did leave Gonzalo Higuain and Eden Hazard on the bench.&nbsp;

Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri was relieved as his side claimed a 2-1 victory at Malmo in the Europa League last-32 first leg to ease some of the pressure on beleaguered coach Sarri.

Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri was relieved as his side claimed a 2-1 victory at Malmo in the Europa League last-32 first leg to ease some of the pressure on beleaguered coach Sarri. After watching his side crumble in a 6-0 defeat at Premier League rival Manchester City on Sunday, Sarri was looking for a response in Malmo. "I am happy with the confidence, it wasn't easy to play with this confidence after the last match." "In the last period we have had the problem of the up and down. Up and down, up and down because 4-0 (defeat to Bournemouth), 5-0 for us (win versus Huddersfield Town), 6-0 (defeat to Manchester City)," said Maurizio Sarri. "We need to have continuity, consistency I think in the mental condition (in order) to be able to approach every match with the same level of determination. With the same level of application, with the same level of attention," Sarri said as he hopes this win can help the Blues find consistency. "We need consistency to approach every match in the same way. It's not easy but we have to try," he said. ‘I am happy because we played with a very good level of confidence, and that was not easy after the last match.' — Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) February 15, 2019 × Chelsea had taken a 2-0 lead before the hour mark in the first leg but a quick Malmo counter-attack 10 minutes from time allowed the Swedish side to go into the return leg with a glimmer of hope. "If we concede a goal like this to a team like Manchester City or United or Tottenham, then you risk conceding three goals in 10 minutes," Sarri told reporters. Sarri named a strong team, although he did leave Gonzalo Higuain and Eden Hazard on the bench.

'Chelsea need consistency,' says coach Maurizio Sarri

Manchester City ruthlessly destroyed woeful Chelsea in a 6-0 win at The Etihad on Sunday to return to the top of the Premier League.&nbsp;

To add to that, Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri complicated the situation, even more, when he walked down the tunnel without shaking Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola's hand.&nbsp;

While Guardiola and Sarri were both keen to play down any suggestions of a rift between the two managers.&nbsp;

Sarri insisted this was not due to having a personal problem with Guardiola.&nbsp;

"No I didn't see him in the moment but of course as usual I will go to say hello to him later, as usual. It was by chance, because I wanted to go to the dressing room, at the moment I didn't see him. I have not a problem with Pep (Guardiola)," said Sarri.&nbsp;

Watch the video:

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Sarri refused to shake Pep Guardiola after Chelsea got smacked 6-0 by Man City 😂😂😂😭 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MCICHE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MCICHE</a><a href="https://t.co/6PG9CvRROA">pic.twitter.com/6PG9CvRROA</a>
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Similarly, Guardiola said he didn't have an issue with Sarri and spoke to Chelsea assistant manager Gianfranco Zola at full-time.&nbsp;

"I have a good relationship with him so no problem at all," said Pep Guardiola during the post-match conferrence.&nbsp;

Manchester City ruthlessly destroyed woeful Chelsea in a 6-0 win at The Etihad on Sunday to return to the top of the Premier League. To add to that, Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri complicated the situation, even more, when he walked down the tunnel without shaking Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola's hand.

Manchester City ruthlessly destroyed woeful Chelsea in a 6-0 win at The Etihad on Sunday to return to the top of the Premier League. To add to that, Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri complicated the situation, even more, when he walked down the tunnel without shaking Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola's hand. While Guardiola and Sarri were both keen to play down any suggestions of a rift between the two managers. Sarri insisted this was not due to having a personal problem with Guardiola. "No I didn't see him in the moment but of course as usual I will go to say hello to him later, as usual. It was by chance, because I wanted to go to the dressing room, at the moment I didn't see him. I have not a problem with Pep (Guardiola)," said Sarri. Watch the video: Sarri refused to shake Pep Guardiola after Chelsea got smacked 6-0 by Man City 😂😂😂😭 #MCICHEpic.twitter.com/6PG9CvRROA — Pye Waw (@pyewaw) February 10, 2019 × Similarly, Guardiola said he didn't have an issue with Sarri and spoke to Chelsea assistant manager Gianfranco Zola at full-time. "I have a good relationship with him so no problem at all," said Pep Guardiola during the post-match conferrence.

Maurizio Sarri explains handshake snub as Pep Guardiola dismisses controversy

Manchester City's on-fire striker Sergio Aguero struck his second hat-trick in a week as the champions ruthlessly destroyed woeful Chelsea in a 6-0 win at The Etihad on Sunday to return to the top of the Premier League.

While Liverpool's 3-0 win over Bournemouth on Saturday cut short talk of title run-in nerves on Merseyside this City victory, achieved with some glorious football against a top six opponent, was an emphatic statement.

In the past week City have beaten Arsenal at home and Everton away before taking Maurizio Sarri's side to pieces with four goals in the opening 25 minutes.

Rampant City have now scored 33 goals in their last five home games in all competitions and have a chance of lifting their first silverware of the season when they face Chelsea again at Wembley in the League Cup final on Feb. 24.

City and Liverpool are both on 65 points with City having the better goal difference although they have played one more game than their rivals. Third-placed Tottenham Hotspur, who beat Leicester City 3-1 earlier on Sunday, are five points behind.

Aguero, who scored a hat-trick seven days ago against Arsenal, has equalled Alan Shearer's record of 11 Premier League hat-tricks and is now joint top scorer in the league this season with Liverpool's Mohamed Salah.

DEFENCE NAPPING

Chelsea had no time to settle before Raheem Sterling fired City ahead in the fourth minute with a side-foot finish after a quick free-kick from Kevin De Bruyne caught the visiting defence napping.

After Aguero had somehow missed an open goal from two metres, the Argentine promptly beat goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga with a blistering strike from 25 metres, underlining the fact that he is far more than a penalty area poacher.

A poor header by Chelsea's Ross Barkley towards his own goal gifted Aguero with City's third, the Argentine firing home with a first-time shot on the turn, and then a low drive from Ilkay Gundogan made it 4-0 after 25 minutes.

Following the break, Aguero, who also became City's all-time top scorer in league games, headed against the bar before he completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot after Sterling had been brought down by Cesar Azpilicueta.

Sterling completed the rout, turning in a low cross from Oleksandr Zinchenko in the 80th.

The defeat was Chelsea's worst since their 7-0 loss to Nottingham Forest in 1991 and will raise serious questions about the direction the team is going in under Italian Sarri as they slipped to sixth place on 50 points, a point off the top four.

Manchester City's on-fire striker Sergio Aguero struck his second hat-trick in a week as the champions ruthlessly destroyed woeful Chelsea in a 6-0 win at The Etihad on Sunday to return to the top of the Premier League.

Manchester City's on-fire striker Sergio Aguero struck his second hat-trick in a week as the champions ruthlessly destroyed woeful Chelsea in a 6-0 win at The Etihad on Sunday to return to the top of the Premier League. While Liverpool's 3-0 win over Bournemouth on Saturday cut short talk of title run-in nerves on Merseyside this City victory, achieved with some glorious football against a top six opponent, was an emphatic statement. In the past week City have beaten Arsenal at home and Everton away before taking Maurizio Sarri's side to pieces with four goals in the opening 25 minutes. Rampant City have now scored 33 goals in their last five home games in all competitions and have a chance of lifting their first silverware of the season when they face Chelsea again at Wembley in the League Cup final on Feb. 24. City and Liverpool are both on 65 points with City having the better goal difference although they have played one more game than their rivals. Third-placed Tottenham Hotspur, who beat Leicester City 3-1 earlier on Sunday, are five points behind. Aguero, who scored a hat-trick seven days ago against Arsenal, has equalled Alan Shearer's record of 11 Premier League hat-tricks and is now joint top scorer in the league this season with Liverpool's Mohamed Salah. DEFENCE NAPPING Chelsea had no time to settle before Raheem Sterling fired City ahead in the fourth minute with a side-foot finish after a quick free-kick from Kevin De Bruyne caught the visiting defence napping. After Aguero had somehow missed an open goal from two metres, the Argentine promptly beat goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga with a blistering strike from 25 metres, underlining the fact that he is far more than a penalty area poacher. A poor header by Chelsea's Ross Barkley towards his own goal gifted Aguero with City's third, the Argentine firing home with a first-time shot on the turn, and then a low drive from Ilkay Gundogan made it 4-0 after 25 minutes. Following the break, Aguero, who also became City's all-time top scorer in league games, headed against the bar before he completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot after Sterling had been brought down by Cesar Azpilicueta. Sterling completed the rout, turning in a low cross from Oleksandr Zinchenko in the 80th. The defeat was Chelsea's worst since their 7-0 loss to Nottingham Forest in 1991 and will raise serious questions about the direction the team is going in under Italian Sarri as they slipped to sixth place on 50 points, a point off the top four.

Man City destroy Chelsea 6-0 with another Aguero hat-trick

Maurizio Sarri admitted his job as Chelsea manager is at risk after his side's <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/man-city-destroy-chelsea-6-0-with-another-aguero-hat-trick-196499">humiliating 6-0 defeat to Manchester City</a> on Sunday at The Etihad.&nbsp;

City scored four times inside the first 25 minutes to inflict Chelsea worst loss in any competition since 1991 and a 4-0 defeat to Bournemouth in their last away game was Chelsea's heaviest league defeat since 1996.&nbsp;

Sarri's side remain outside of the Premier League's top four and the club's supporters have questioned some of his tactical decisions.&nbsp;

"I don't know. You have to ask the club," said the Italian when asked if he feared being fired just eight months into a three-year contract at Stamford Bridge.&nbsp;

"I am worried about my team, worried about the performance but my job is always at risk."&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/maurizio-sarri-explains-handshake-snub-as-pep-guardiola-dismisses-controversy-196612">Maurizio Sarri explains handshake snub as Pep Guardiola dismisses </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/maurizio-sarri-explains-handshake-snub-as-pep-guardiola-dismisses-controversy-196612">controversy</a>

Sergio Aguero grabbed a hat-trick after Raheem Sterling&nbsp;fourth-minute opener. Sterling went on to score another in the second half.

And Ilkay Gundogan's shot from the edge of the area to compound Chelsea's woes.&nbsp;

"We conceded the goal after four minutes in a stupid way," added Sarri.&nbsp;

"At that moment we had to only stay in the match and we were not able to stay in the match because we made a lot of mistakes against the wrong opponents. They played really fantastic football today."&nbsp;

However, the Chelsea boss who took over from Antonio Conte at the beginning of the season insists he is not worried by any rumours that he could be sacked.&nbsp;

Maurizio Sarri admitted his job as Chelsea manager is at risk after his side's humiliating 6-0 defeat to Manchester City on Sunday at The Etihad. City scored four times inside the first 25 minutes to inflict Chelsea worst loss in any competition since 1991 and a 4-0 defeat to Bournemouth in their last away game was Chelsea's heaviest league defeat since 1996.

Maurizio Sarri admitted his job as Chelsea manager is at risk after his side's humiliating 6-0 defeat to Manchester City on Sunday at The Etihad. City scored four times inside the first 25 minutes to inflict Chelsea worst loss in any competition since 1991 and a 4-0 defeat to Bournemouth in their last away game was Chelsea's heaviest league defeat since 1996. Sarri's side remain outside of the Premier League's top four and the club's supporters have questioned some of his tactical decisions. "I don't know. You have to ask the club," said the Italian when asked if he feared being fired just eight months into a three-year contract at Stamford Bridge. "I am worried about my team, worried about the performance but my job is always at risk." Also Read: Maurizio Sarri explains handshake snub as Pep Guardiola dismisses controversy Sergio Aguero grabbed a hat-trick after Raheem Sterling fourth-minute opener. Sterling went on to score another in the second half. And Ilkay Gundogan's shot from the edge of the area to compound Chelsea's woes. "We conceded the goal after four minutes in a stupid way," added Sarri. "At that moment we had to only stay in the match and we were not able to stay in the match because we made a lot of mistakes against the wrong opponents. They played really fantastic football today." However, the Chelsea boss who took over from Antonio Conte at the beginning of the season insists he is not worried by any rumours that he could be sacked.

'My job is always at risk,' Maurizio Sarri plays down speculation regarding his Chelsea future

Manchester City, Liverpool look for fresh impetus after Premier League stumbles

Chelsea produced the perfect response to manager Maurizio Sarri's weekend criticism to beat London rivals Tottenham Hotspur on penalties on Thursday and set up a League Cup final showdown against holders Manchester City.

Trailing 1-0 from the semi-final first leg, Chelsea turned the tie on its head with goals by N'Golo Kante and Eden Hazard in the first half but Fernando Llorente struck for Spurs in an enthralling Stamford Bridge duel.

Chelsea had 20 goal attempts to Tottenham's five but the visitors held firm to set up a penalty shootout.

Christian Eriksen scored Tottenham's first spot-kick but teammate Eric Dier, the hero of England's World Cup shootout win over Colombia last year, fired over and Lucas Moura's penalty was well-saved by goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga.

Chelsea's penalties were more clinical and David Luiz slotted past Paulo Gazzaniga to seal the victory and send Chelsea into their 15th cup final in 17 years.

Spurs, who were without Harry Kane, scorer of a penalty in the first leg, and England teammate Dele Alli, both because of injury, plus South Korean Son Heung-min who is on international duty, battled hard but their wait for silverware goes on.

They have not won a trophy since beating Chelsea in the 2008 League Cup final.

After Chelsea's 2-0 weekend Premier League defeat at Arsenal, Sarri raised eyebrows by accusing his players of being "difficult to motivate" and publicly demanded more of his Belgium forward Hazard.

But a visit from rivals Tottenham, with a Wembley final at stake, provided the incentive for a far sharper display, with Hazard at the heart of Chelsea's attacking endeavour.

"I think that they reacted well tonight," Sarri, who has never won a trophy during his near 30-year managerial career, told reporters.

"But I didn't attack my players. I just said we had a problem. The reaction was very good but we need to have motivation with continuity now.

"In the last three or four matches we were not able to be dangerous. Tonight was better."

Tails Up

Tottenham, who are four points above Chelsea in the Premier League standings, looked comfortable early on but the hosts gradually began to exert a measure of control.

Chelsea went ahead in the 27th minute when Kante's shot from the edge of the area went through the legs of two Spurs players and squirmed past Gazzaniga -- in goal instead of Hugo Lloris.

With their tails up Chelsea began to dominate and they went ahead in the tie in the 38th minute when a fluid passing move ended with Cesar Azpilicueta's low cross being calmly side-footed home by a stretching Hazard.

Tottenham responded after the break and Kane's replacement Llorente bundled in a header from Danny Rose's cross to put them back on level terms on aggregate in the 50th minute.

The Spanish striker also wasted a great chance from Eriksen's raking pass before being replaced by Moura.

However, it was Chelsea who looked the more likely side to avoid the need for penalties. Hazard twice went close and Spurs needed some last-ditch tackles to keep Chelsea at bay.

It was all in vain for Mauricio Pochettino's side, though, as they faltered with a domestic final in sight.

"We are disappointed but it's a massive success to get to the semi-final with all the circumstances," he said.

"We're so disappointed to lose in that way, but it can happen. The players were brave and with all the circumstances I can only feel proud. It will make us stronger."

Chelsea produced the perfect response to manager Maurizio Sarri's weekend criticism to beat London rivals Tottenham Hotspur on penalties on Thursday and set up a League Cup final showdown against holders Manchester City.

Chelsea produced the perfect response to manager Maurizio Sarri's weekend criticism to beat London rivals Tottenham Hotspur on penalties on Thursday and set up a League Cup final showdown against holders Manchester City. Trailing 1-0 from the semi-final first leg, Chelsea turned the tie on its head with goals by N'Golo Kante and Eden Hazard in the first half but Fernando Llorente struck for Spurs in an enthralling Stamford Bridge duel. Chelsea had 20 goal attempts to Tottenham's five but the visitors held firm to set up a penalty shootout. Christian Eriksen scored Tottenham's first spot-kick but teammate Eric Dier, the hero of England's World Cup shootout win over Colombia last year, fired over and Lucas Moura's penalty was well-saved by goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga. Chelsea's penalties were more clinical and David Luiz slotted past Paulo Gazzaniga to seal the victory and send Chelsea into their 15th cup final in 17 years. Spurs, who were without Harry Kane, scorer of a penalty in the first leg, and England teammate Dele Alli, both because of injury, plus South Korean Son Heung-min who is on international duty, battled hard but their wait for silverware goes on. They have not won a trophy since beating Chelsea in the 2008 League Cup final. After Chelsea's 2-0 weekend Premier League defeat at Arsenal, Sarri raised eyebrows by accusing his players of being "difficult to motivate" and publicly demanded more of his Belgium forward Hazard. But a visit from rivals Tottenham, with a Wembley final at stake, provided the incentive for a far sharper display, with Hazard at the heart of Chelsea's attacking endeavour. "I think that they reacted well tonight," Sarri, who has never won a trophy during his near 30-year managerial career, told reporters. "But I didn't attack my players. I just said we had a problem. The reaction was very good but we need to have motivation with continuity now. "In the last three or four matches we were not able to be dangerous. Tonight was better." Tails Up Tottenham, who are four points above Chelsea in the Premier League standings, looked comfortable early on but the hosts gradually began to exert a measure of control. Chelsea went ahead in the 27th minute when Kante's shot from the edge of the area went through the legs of two Spurs players and squirmed past Gazzaniga -- in goal instead of Hugo Lloris. With their tails up Chelsea began to dominate and they went ahead in the tie in the 38th minute when a fluid passing move ended with Cesar Azpilicueta's low cross being calmly side-footed home by a stretching Hazard. Tottenham responded after the break and Kane's replacement Llorente bundled in a header from Danny Rose's cross to put them back on level terms on aggregate in the 50th minute. The Spanish striker also wasted a great chance from Eriksen's raking pass before being replaced by Moura. However, it was Chelsea who looked the more likely side to avoid the need for penalties. Hazard twice went close and Spurs needed some last-ditch tackles to keep Chelsea at bay. It was all in vain for Mauricio Pochettino's side, though, as they faltered with a domestic final in sight. "We are disappointed but it's a massive success to get to the semi-final with all the circumstances," he said. "We're so disappointed to lose in that way, but it can happen. The players were brave and with all the circumstances I can only feel proud. It will make us stronger."

Chelsea edge Spurs on penalties to reach League Cup final

Angry Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri accused his players of lacking determination and being "difficult to motivate" after watching their lacklustre 2-0 defeat away to London rivals Arsenal in the Premier League on Saturday.

When he eventually emerged from the dressing room the Italian insisted on delivering his post-match comments in his native language in order to fully express his bitter disappointment with his team.

"I prefer to speak Italian today because I want to send a message to my players and I want it to be very clear," the 60-year-old former Napoli coach began before switching to Italian.

The translation would not have made pleasant listening for his players who despite bags of possession at the Emirates were blunt in attack and casual in defence and could have conceded more in a first half dominated by Arsenal.

"I have to say that I'm extremely angry because this defeat was due to our mentality," he said through a translator.

"We played against a team that mentally was far more determined than we were and this is something I can't accept.

"We had the same issue as this at Tottenham and we spoke frankly about that particular loss. I thought we had managed to overcome this issue. But it seems we have an issue of having the right amount of determination and being mentally strong.

"The fact of the matter is I'm finding that this group of players is extremely difficult to motivate."

Chelsea remain in fourth place but are only three points above Arsenal and Manchester United after goals by Alexandre Lacazette and Laurent Koscielny condemned his side to defeat.

'MORE DETERMINED'

With Liverpool and Manchester City battling for the title, it leaves Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal and United scrapping for third and fourth places. Sarri appeared to question whether his side have the stomach for the dogfight.

"Today I could see that one team was quite obviously more determined than the other," he said. "It was not about tactics. From a technical point of view the two teams were pretty much on the same level today. But their higher level of determination was pretty obvious, particularly in both penalty areas.

"(Arsenal) were clinical and we weren't strong enough in defence. Don't get me wrong we could have lost this game anyway but I feel we lost it because of a lack of determination."

Asked if he could change the mentality of his team, Sarri did not sound convinced.

"That's a difficult question," he said. "It seems that as a group of players they are not particularly aggressive from a mental point of view and they don't have the kind of ferocity and that's to do with their characteristics.

"That could take a long time to change. By the same token it could be changed by a new player coming in or one of the old heads assuming responsibility and driving them forward."

With a 1-0 deficit to overturn against Tottenham Hotspur in the League Cup semi-final second leg on Thursday, Sarri hopes some hard truths can be expressed this week.

"They cannot be afraid to face up to their own responsibilities," he said. "They should be able to come and talk to the coach about mistakes that have been made or issues that have arisen. If any player is afraid of that then they should not be playing at this level.

"I'm very aware that this team will never be known for its battling and fighting qualities, but what we need to be is a team that can adapt and suffer, then play our football."

Angry Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri accused his players of lacking determination and being "difficult to motivate" after watching their lacklustre 2-0 defeat away to London rivals Arsenal in the Premier League on Saturday.

Angry Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri accused his players of lacking determination and being "difficult to motivate" after watching their lacklustre 2-0 defeat away to London rivals Arsenal in the Premier League on Saturday. When he eventually emerged from the dressing room the Italian insisted on delivering his post-match comments in his native language in order to fully express his bitter disappointment with his team. "I prefer to speak Italian today because I want to send a message to my players and I want it to be very clear," the 60-year-old former Napoli coach began before switching to Italian. The translation would not have made pleasant listening for his players who despite bags of possession at the Emirates were blunt in attack and casual in defence and could have conceded more in a first half dominated by Arsenal. "I have to say that I'm extremely angry because this defeat was due to our mentality," he said through a translator. "We played against a team that mentally was far more determined than we were and this is something I can't accept. "We had the same issue as this at Tottenham and we spoke frankly about that particular loss. I thought we had managed to overcome this issue. But it seems we have an issue of having the right amount of determination and being mentally strong. "The fact of the matter is I'm finding that this group of players is extremely difficult to motivate." Chelsea remain in fourth place but are only three points above Arsenal and Manchester United after goals by Alexandre Lacazette and Laurent Koscielny condemned his side to defeat. 'MORE DETERMINED' With Liverpool and Manchester City battling for the title, it leaves Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal and United scrapping for third and fourth places. Sarri appeared to question whether his side have the stomach for the dogfight. "Today I could see that one team was quite obviously more determined than the other," he said. "It was not about tactics. From a technical point of view the two teams were pretty much on the same level today. But their higher level of determination was pretty obvious, particularly in both penalty areas. "(Arsenal) were clinical and we weren't strong enough in defence. Don't get me wrong we could have lost this game anyway but I feel we lost it because of a lack of determination." Asked if he could change the mentality of his team, Sarri did not sound convinced. "That's a difficult question," he said. "It seems that as a group of players they are not particularly aggressive from a mental point of view and they don't have the kind of ferocity and that's to do with their characteristics. "That could take a long time to change. By the same token it could be changed by a new player coming in or one of the old heads assuming responsibility and driving them forward." With a 1-0 deficit to overturn against Tottenham Hotspur in the League Cup semi-final second leg on Thursday, Sarri hopes some hard truths can be expressed this week. "They cannot be afraid to face up to their own responsibilities," he said. "They should be able to come and talk to the coach about mistakes that have been made or issues that have arisen. If any player is afraid of that then they should not be playing at this level. "I'm very aware that this team will never be known for its battling and fighting qualities, but what we need to be is a team that can adapt and suffer, then play our football."

Furious Maurizio Sarri says Chelsea players lack motivation

Chelsea have agreed a deal to sign striker <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Gonzalo+Higuain">Gonzalo Higuain</a> on loan from Juventus until the end of the season, according to reports in the British media.

The Argentina international joined the Italian champions in 2016 but was loaned to AC Milan at the start of the current season where he has scored eight goals in 22 appearances this term.

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri is keen to strengthen his options in attack after dropping misfiring Spain forward Alvaro Morata to the bench and being forced to deploy playmaker Eden Hazard as a 'false nine' in recent games.

Sarri worked with Higuain when he was manager at Napoli and it was under the Italian that the striker scored 36 goals to equal the Serie A record for most goals in a season in 2015-16.

Sky Sports reported on Wednesday that the loan deal for Higuain could be extended for another 12 months subject to certain conditions.

Higuain's arrival could see Chelsea sanction a loan move for Morata, who is in talks with boyhood club Atletico Madrid about a return to Spain's La Liga.

Chelsea have agreed a deal to sign striker Gonzalo Higuain on loan from Juventus until the end of the season, according to reports in the British media. The Argentina international joined the Italian champions in 2016 but was loaned to AC Milan at the start of the current season where he has scored eight goals in 22 appearances this term.

Chelsea have agreed a deal to sign striker Gonzalo Higuain on loan from Juventus until the end of the season, according to reports in the British media. The Argentina international joined the Italian champions in 2016 but was loaned to AC Milan at the start of the current season where he has scored eight goals in 22 appearances this term. Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri is keen to strengthen his options in attack after dropping misfiring Spain forward Alvaro Morata to the bench and being forced to deploy playmaker Eden Hazard as a 'false nine' in recent games. Sarri worked with Higuain when he was manager at Napoli and it was under the Italian that the striker scored 36 goals to equal the Serie A record for most goals in a season in 2015-16. Sky Sports reported on Wednesday that the loan deal for Higuain could be extended for another 12 months subject to certain conditions. Higuain's arrival could see Chelsea sanction a loan move for Morata, who is in talks with boyhood club Atletico Madrid about a return to Spain's La Liga.

Chelsea agree Gonzalo Higuain loan from Juventus: Reports

Chelsea coach Maurizio Sarri has requested a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/cesc-fabregas-joins-monaco-from-chelsea-189695">replacement for Cesc Fabregas</a> after his side's 2-1 Premier League victory over Newcastle on Saturday.&nbsp;

Spanish midfielder Fabregas has completed the transfer move to French club AS Monaco on Friday.&nbsp;

The move has left Jorginho as the only player Sarri considers capable of playing at the pivot position in his preferred 4-3-3 formation.&nbsp;

While speaking to media, Sarri said, "As you have seen today, today Jorginho was in trouble and on the bench there wasn't a player for that position, so I need a player for that position. I need an option for Jorginho."

Sarri also added that he has "no idea" when the club will get a suitable replacement. &nbsp;

"The club knows very well my opinion. I need a player there, so it depends on the club decision I think. I cannot do anything more," Sarri added.&nbsp;

Apart from talking about the transfer activities, Sarri has warned his Chelsea players to improve their mentality after Willian's sublime strike sealed a hard-fought win over struggling Newcastle.&nbsp;

He told reporters, "Today we started very well I think, for 10 minutes, but after the goal, I think we thought 'now it's easy,' but it wasn't. And so we slept for 20-25 minutes and at the end of the first half, we were in trouble."&nbsp;

"Better in the second half but we need to improve in the mental reaction because, after our first goal, something happened," added Sarri.&nbsp;

Fourth-placed Chelsea extended their advantage over fifth-placed Arsenal to six points.&nbsp;

Chelsea coach Maurizio Sarri has requested a replacement for Cesc Fabregas after his side's 2-1 Premier League victory over Newcastle on Saturday. Spanish midfielder Fabregas has completed the transfer move to French club AS Monaco on Friday.

Chelsea coach Maurizio Sarri has requested a replacement for Cesc Fabregas after his side's 2-1 Premier League victory over Newcastle on Saturday. Spanish midfielder Fabregas has completed the transfer move to French club AS Monaco on Friday. The move has left Jorginho as the only player Sarri considers capable of playing at the pivot position in his preferred 4-3-3 formation. While speaking to media, Sarri said, "As you have seen today, today Jorginho was in trouble and on the bench there wasn't a player for that position, so I need a player for that position. I need an option for Jorginho." Sarri also added that he has "no idea" when the club will get a suitable replacement. "The club knows very well my opinion. I need a player there, so it depends on the club decision I think. I cannot do anything more," Sarri added. Apart from talking about the transfer activities, Sarri has warned his Chelsea players to improve their mentality after Willian's sublime strike sealed a hard-fought win over struggling Newcastle. He told reporters, "Today we started very well I think, for 10 minutes, but after the goal, I think we thought 'now it's easy,' but it wasn't. And so we slept for 20-25 minutes and at the end of the first half, we were in trouble." "Better in the second half but we need to improve in the mental reaction because, after our first goal, something happened," added Sarri. Fourth-placed Chelsea extended their advantage over fifth-placed Arsenal to six points.

Chelsea coach Maurizio Sarri requests Cesc Fabregas replacement

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri is unsure whether midfielder Cesc Fabregas has played his last game for the club but he feels the Spaniard must leave for the good of his career.

Fabregas appeared to say goodbye to Chelsea after Saturday's 2-0 FA Cup win over Nottingham Forest at Stamford Bridge, where he applauded all sides of the ground.

The 31-year-old's contract expires at the end of the season, with British media reporting the player is close to securing a move to AS Monaco this month.

"I don't know if he is able to play tomorrow because in the last match he had cramp in the calf so he needs to rest I think," Sarri told reporters ahead of Chelsea's League Cup semi-final first-leg clash against Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday.

"Yesterday he had a free day for the injury but I don't know (if he is going to Monaco). I can say only my opinion, I don't know the decision of the club. In my opinion he needs to go."

Fabregas, who has won two Premier League titles since joining Chelsea in 2014, has struggled for first-team opportunities under Sarri, making six appearances in the league this season.

"You know very well the situation and in our club there is a rule, the renewal for players over 30 is usually for a year," Sarri added.

"He has an offer for two years and I don't want a very important player like Cesc to be unhappy."

Sarri ruled out Ruben Loftus-Cheek from the Spurs clash at Wembley Stadium after the midfielder was substituted against Forest with a back injury.

The Italian coach said the club will look to boost their midfield options if Fabregas leaves this month.

"Now with the midfield we are in trouble because I don't know about the situation with Loftus-Cheek, if it's serious or not," Sarri added.

"Without Cesc we only have five so we need a replacement."

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri is unsure whether midfielder Cesc Fabregas has played his last game for the club but he feels the Spaniard must leave for the good of his career.

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri is unsure whether midfielder Cesc Fabregas has played his last game for the club but he feels the Spaniard must leave for the good of his career. Fabregas appeared to say goodbye to Chelsea after Saturday's 2-0 FA Cup win over Nottingham Forest at Stamford Bridge, where he applauded all sides of the ground. The 31-year-old's contract expires at the end of the season, with British media reporting the player is close to securing a move to AS Monaco this month. "I don't know if he is able to play tomorrow because in the last match he had cramp in the calf so he needs to rest I think," Sarri told reporters ahead of Chelsea's League Cup semi-final first-leg clash against Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday. "Yesterday he had a free day for the injury but I don't know (if he is going to Monaco). I can say only my opinion, I don't know the decision of the club. In my opinion he needs to go." Fabregas, who has won two Premier League titles since joining Chelsea in 2014, has struggled for first-team opportunities under Sarri, making six appearances in the league this season. "You know very well the situation and in our club there is a rule, the renewal for players over 30 is usually for a year," Sarri added. "He has an offer for two years and I don't want a very important player like Cesc to be unhappy." Sarri ruled out Ruben Loftus-Cheek from the Spurs clash at Wembley Stadium after the midfielder was substituted against Forest with a back injury. The Italian coach said the club will look to boost their midfield options if Fabregas leaves this month. "Now with the midfield we are in trouble because I don't know about the situation with Loftus-Cheek, if it's serious or not," Sarri added. "Without Cesc we only have five so we need a replacement."

Chelsea's Maurizio Sarri backs Cesc Fabregas exit amid talk of Monaco switch

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri has urged the club to "solve the problem" of Eden Hazard's future, amid speculation that the Belgian winger will leave Stamford Bridge at the end of the season.

Hazard, who has one-and-a-half years remaining on his Chelsea deal, said he will not make a decision on his long-term future until the end of the campaign, which did nothing to stop the persistent rumours linking him to Real Madrid.

Asked what he thought Hazard would do, Sarri told a news conference on Friday: "I don't know. I speak to him only about the position on the pitch. But I think that it's time to decide.

"I think we have to solve the problem. If we want to plan the future, we have to solve this problem."

Hazard boasts a hand in 19 Premier League goals this season, more than any other player, and was again on the scoresheet with a brace in Chelsea's 2-1 win over Watford on Boxing Day.

While Hazard prefers to play on the wing, Sarri has used him in a central "false-nine" role during the last few matches and may do so again for Sunday's trip to Crystal Palace.

With strikers Olivier Giroud and Alvaro Morata struggling to score on a regular basis, the Italian manager expects Hazard to shoulder most of the goalscoring responsibility.

"He played four matches as false number nine, and he scored three goals and two assists," Sarri said.

"I am really very happy with him in this position, because he's very able to score, first of all, but he's very able to open spaces for the team mates, to come and play with the team mates.

"But in the future he can also play as a winger of course."

Sarri also ruled out Pedro for at least 10 days with a hamstring problem.

The Spanish forward picked up the injury in the first half at Vicarage Road and was replaced by Callum Hudson-Odoi, who has been nursing a hamstring problem of his own and was taken off in the 85th minute.

"We have two problems, the first more serious with Pedro," Sarri said. "A hamstring injury and I think that he will have to rest for about 10 days.

"The second problem was Odoi, it's not as serious but I don't think he will play in the next match."

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri has urged the club to "solve the problem" of Eden Hazard's future, amid speculation that the Belgian winger will leave Stamford Bridge at the end of the season.

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri has urged the club to "solve the problem" of Eden Hazard's future, amid speculation that the Belgian winger will leave Stamford Bridge at the end of the season. Hazard, who has one-and-a-half years remaining on his Chelsea deal, said he will not make a decision on his long-term future until the end of the campaign, which did nothing to stop the persistent rumours linking him to Real Madrid. Asked what he thought Hazard would do, Sarri told a news conference on Friday: "I don't know. I speak to him only about the position on the pitch. But I think that it's time to decide. "I think we have to solve the problem. If we want to plan the future, we have to solve this problem." Hazard boasts a hand in 19 Premier League goals this season, more than any other player, and was again on the scoresheet with a brace in Chelsea's 2-1 win over Watford on Boxing Day. While Hazard prefers to play on the wing, Sarri has used him in a central "false-nine" role during the last few matches and may do so again for Sunday's trip to Crystal Palace. With strikers Olivier Giroud and Alvaro Morata struggling to score on a regular basis, the Italian manager expects Hazard to shoulder most of the goalscoring responsibility. "He played four matches as false number nine, and he scored three goals and two assists," Sarri said. "I am really very happy with him in this position, because he's very able to score, first of all, but he's very able to open spaces for the team mates, to come and play with the team mates. "But in the future he can also play as a winger of course." Sarri also ruled out Pedro for at least 10 days with a hamstring problem. The Spanish forward picked up the injury in the first half at Vicarage Road and was replaced by Callum Hudson-Odoi, who has been nursing a hamstring problem of his own and was taken off in the 85th minute. "We have two problems, the first more serious with Pedro," Sarri said. "A hamstring injury and I think that he will have to rest for about 10 days. "The second problem was Odoi, it's not as serious but I don't think he will play in the next match."

Time to resolve Hazard's Chelsea future: Maurizio Sarri

Maurizio Sarri has described the alleged racist abuse of Manchester City forward Raheem Sterling by Chelsea fans as "disgusting" and condemned discrimination in any form in his first public comments on the incident.

Chelsea said on Monday they had banned four supporters from their matches pending a police investigation into the incident which occurred during City's 2-0 Premier League defeat at Stamford Bridge last Saturday.

"First of all, I want to say that I condemn any form of discrimination, of course. I think that I have to stop here," the Chelsea manager told reporters ahead of Thursday's Europa League match against Vidi in Budapest.

"Because there is an investigation so I think it's better not to say something more. Of course, my opinion is that I condemn every sort of discrimination.

"It was disgusting. You know very well my opinion, the opinion of the club, but now we have to go on."

Sterling posted a statement on Instagram last Sunday in which he said newspapers were fuelling racism in soccer due to their negative portrayal of young black players in comparison to their white counterparts.

His comments were echoed by the Professional Footballers' Association and former players.

One of the Chelsea supporters who has been banned admitted directing abuse at Sterling but said the vitriol was 'not racist in nature'.

Sterling's England teammate Ruben Loftus-Cheek said a strong response was needed to rid the sport of the problem.

"It doesn't happen a lot in England, but obviously still happens. Most people don't like this and it needs to be out of the game as quick as possible," Loftus-Cheek said.

"He (Sterling) was right to say what he said. I don't think it should be in the game or anywhere. Him speaking out was the right thing. If it happened to me I would do the same."

Maurizio Sarri has described the alleged racist abuse of Manchester City forward Raheem Sterling by Chelsea fans as "disgusting" and condemned discrimination in any form in his first public comments on the incident.

Maurizio Sarri has described the alleged racist abuse of Manchester City forward Raheem Sterling by Chelsea fans as "disgusting" and condemned discrimination in any form in his first public comments on the incident. Chelsea said on Monday they had banned four supporters from their matches pending a police investigation into the incident which occurred during City's 2-0 Premier League defeat at Stamford Bridge last Saturday. "First of all, I want to say that I condemn any form of discrimination, of course. I think that I have to stop here," the Chelsea manager told reporters ahead of Thursday's Europa League match against Vidi in Budapest. "Because there is an investigation so I think it's better not to say something more. Of course, my opinion is that I condemn every sort of discrimination. "It was disgusting. You know very well my opinion, the opinion of the club, but now we have to go on." Sterling posted a statement on Instagram last Sunday in which he said newspapers were fuelling racism in soccer due to their negative portrayal of young black players in comparison to their white counterparts. His comments were echoed by the Professional Footballers' Association and former players. One of the Chelsea supporters who has been banned admitted directing abuse at Sterling but said the vitriol was 'not racist in nature'. Sterling's England teammate Ruben Loftus-Cheek said a strong response was needed to rid the sport of the problem. "It doesn't happen a lot in England, but obviously still happens. Most people don't like this and it needs to be out of the game as quick as possible," Loftus-Cheek said. "He (Sterling) was right to say what he said. I don't think it should be in the game or anywhere. Him speaking out was the right thing. If it happened to me I would do the same."

Alleged racist abuse of Raheem Sterling 'disgusting', says Maurizio Sarri

Chelsea bounced back from the disappointment of losing at Wolves in midweek as they <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-fall-from-top-spot-with-2-0-loss-to-chelsea-182559">defeated Manchester City 2-0</a> in Premier League's Matchday 16 action on Saturday.&nbsp;

City dominated the first half but failed to profit with Raheem Sterling and Leroy Sane missed big chances.

Despite the victory, Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri complained about his side's level of motivation.

While interacting with media, Sarri said, "I think that we have a team with some difficulties to be motivated and in this kind of match, it is easy to have great motivation, a very good level of determination, the right level of aggressivity."

"But then during the season, you will also have to play against the small teams."

Sarri had lost all of his previous three meetings against Guardiola and was growing increasingly frustrated at his side's inability to hold possession as the visitors dominated the first half.

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MASSIVE RESULT. 
 
A brilliant day's work for the Blues! 👏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CHEMCI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CHEMCI</a> <a href="https://t.co/tku9PJXXN4">pic.twitter.com/tku9PJXXN4</a>
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChelseaFC/status/1071485079568957441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"We won today but we have to say we were a bit lucky in the first 25 minutes."

"We played very well in the last minutes of the first half and the first 20 minutes of the second half," he added.

Sarri's decision to field Hazard as the focal point of the Chelsea attack and maintain Kante in an advanced midfield ultimately paid off.

The Italian has resisted calls to return Kante to the deep-lying midfield role where he shone in winning the World Cup with France and Premier League titles for Leicester and Chelsea at the expense of Jorginho.

Chelsea bounced back from the disappointment of losing at Wolves in midweek as they defeated Manchester City 2-0 in Premier League's Matchday 16 action on Saturday.

Chelsea bounced back from the disappointment of losing at Wolves in midweek as they defeated Manchester City 2-0 in Premier League's Matchday 16 action on Saturday. City dominated the first half but failed to profit with Raheem Sterling and Leroy Sane missed big chances. Despite the victory, Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri complained about his side's level of motivation. While interacting with media, Sarri said, "I think that we have a team with some difficulties to be motivated and in this kind of match, it is easy to have great motivation, a very good level of determination, the right level of aggressivity." "But then during the season, you will also have to play against the small teams." Sarri had lost all of his previous three meetings against Guardiola and was growing increasingly frustrated at his side's inability to hold possession as the visitors dominated the first half. MASSIVE RESULT. A brilliant day's work for the Blues! 👏 #CHEMCI pic.twitter.com/tku9PJXXN4 — Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) December 8, 2018 × "We won today but we have to say we were a bit lucky in the first 25 minutes." "We played very well in the last minutes of the first half and the first 20 minutes of the second half," he added. Sarri's decision to field Hazard as the focal point of the Chelsea attack and maintain Kante in an advanced midfield ultimately paid off. The Italian has resisted calls to return Kante to the deep-lying midfield role where he shone in winning the World Cup with France and Premier League titles for Leicester and Chelsea at the expense of Jorginho.

Chelsea players have 'some difficulties to be motivated': Maurizio Sarri

Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri said that he is "very worried" after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-battle-to-draw-with-arsenal-liverpool-march-on-181761">losing 2-1</a> at Wolverhampton Wanderers on Wednesday as the Blues lost more ground in the Premier League title race.

During the post-match interview, Sarri said, "I don't know why but I am very worried, not for the result, but for the fact that we didn't react of the first goal of the opponent. We didn't react at all."

Raul Jimenez and Diogo Jota scored goals in a four-minute span around the hour mark to condemn Chelsea to a second loss in three games, after a recent 3-1 defeat at Tottenham.

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The Blues are beaten this evening.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WOLCHE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WOLCHE</a> <a href="https://t.co/NhQaqba1TI">pic.twitter.com/NhQaqba1TI</a>
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChelseaFC/status/1070432107623780354?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Sarri says what happened did not depend on the changes to the line-up, it depended on the mentality of the team. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WOLCHE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WOLCHE</a>
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChelseaFC/status/1070442027156942853?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The former Napoli boss Sarri further added, "I think that we played very well for 55 minutes. After the first goal, the 1-1, that was an accident because we were in full control of the match."

"We were suddenly another team without the right distances, without our football," he concluded.

Chelsea is 10 points behind unbeaten leader Manchester City and could now be in a race just to finish in the top four to qualify for next season's Champions League.

Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri said that he is "very worried" after losing 2-1 at Wolverhampton Wanderers on Wednesday as the Blues lost more ground in the Premier League title race.

Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri said that he is "very worried" after losing 2-1 at Wolverhampton Wanderers on Wednesday as the Blues lost more ground in the Premier League title race. During the post-match interview, Sarri said, "I don't know why but I am very worried, not for the result, but for the fact that we didn't react of the first goal of the opponent. We didn't react at all." Raul Jimenez and Diogo Jota scored goals in a four-minute span around the hour mark to condemn Chelsea to a second loss in three games, after a recent 3-1 defeat at Tottenham. The Blues are beaten this evening.#WOLCHE pic.twitter.com/NhQaqba1TI — Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) December 5, 2018 × Sarri says what happened did not depend on the changes to the line-up, it depended on the mentality of the team. #WOLCHE — Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) December 5, 2018 × The former Napoli boss Sarri further added, "I think that we played very well for 55 minutes. After the first goal, the 1-1, that was an accident because we were in full control of the match." "We were suddenly another team without the right distances, without our football," he concluded. Chelsea is 10 points behind unbeaten leader Manchester City and could now be in a race just to finish in the top four to qualify for next season's Champions League.

'I am very worried,' says Chelsea's boss Maurizio Sarri after losing to Wolves

It has taken less than two weeks for the optimism generated by a 12-match unbeaten start to Maurizio Sarri's reign at Stamford Bridge to fizzle out and this weekend the Italian faces his biggest test to date when Manchester City visit.

In fairness to the former Napoli manager, he stressed throughout the heady days of early Autumn that Chelsea were not equipped to challenge City for the title and ahead of Saturday's clash between the sides a 10-point gap has opened up.

On Tuesday, Pep Guardiola's City maintained a searing pace at the top with a win against Watford. Twenty-four hours later Chelsea went down 2-1 at Wolverhampton Wanderers -- their second defeat in three Premier League games.

Sarri said his side had only played well for 55 minutes at Wolves and knows they will have to be at full tilt for 90 minutes on Saturday evening if they are to have any chance of halting the City juggernaut.

He said he expects a "big reaction" on Saturday but already appears to have settled for a top-four scrap along with London rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal rather than chasing down Liverpool and champions City.

"Manchester City are in another category. We have to play and to fight to be in the top four," Sarri said after the setback at Wolves.

"City are the best team in Europe, maybe the best in the world. They can win the Champions League."

Juergen Klopp's Liverpool, who like City are unbeaten, started without Roberto Firmino, Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane at Burnley on Wednesday but still won 3-1.

With a huge 'must-win' Champions League game coming up next week against Napoli, Klopp may well gamble on squad rotation as they travel to seventh-placed Bournemouth for Saturday's early kickoff.

Victory for Liverpool would take them top, at least until City's later clash with Chelsea.

Third-placed Tottenham Hotspur will also have a massive Champions League night on their minds when they travel to Leicester City on Saturday evening.

Manager Mauricio Pochettino will be less than pleased that his side kickoff at 1945 GMT with a trip to Barcelona following on Tuesday -- a game Tottenham will almost certainly have to win to reach the last 16 of the tournament.

Fifth-placed Arsenal have no such concerns as they host Huddersfield Town on Saturday looking to extend their unbeaten run in all competitions to 21 matches.

Manchester United, who are 18 points behind leaders City and eight adrift of fourth-placed Chelsea after three successive draws, are at home to bottom club Fulham.

United boss Jose Mourinho has made 46 changes to his starting lineup already this season and all eyes will be on his selection again as he comes face to face with the original "tinkerman" Claudio Ranieri, now at the helm at Fulham.

Mourinho left record signing Paul Pogba on the bench for Wednesday's 2-2 draw at home to Arsenal and also started without Romelu Lukaku but goalscorer Anthony Martial picked up an injury against Arsenal and is a major doubt to face Fulham.

Also on Saturday, Burnley host Brighton and Hove Albion while new Southampton boss manager Ralph Hasenhuttl will be in the dugout for the first time as his side take on fellow strugglers Cardiff City.

West Ham United will be seeking a third consecutive win when they host Crystal Palace in a London derby.

It has taken less than two weeks for the optimism generated by a 12-match unbeaten start to Maurizio Sarri's reign at Stamford Bridge to fizzle out and this weekend the Italian faces his biggest test to date when Manchester City visit.

It has taken less than two weeks for the optimism generated by a 12-match unbeaten start to Maurizio Sarri's reign at Stamford Bridge to fizzle out and this weekend the Italian faces his biggest test to date when Manchester City visit. In fairness to the former Napoli manager, he stressed throughout the heady days of early Autumn that Chelsea were not equipped to challenge City for the title and ahead of Saturday's clash between the sides a 10-point gap has opened up. On Tuesday, Pep Guardiola's City maintained a searing pace at the top with a win against Watford. Twenty-four hours later Chelsea went down 2-1 at Wolverhampton Wanderers -- their second defeat in three Premier League games. Sarri said his side had only played well for 55 minutes at Wolves and knows they will have to be at full tilt for 90 minutes on Saturday evening if they are to have any chance of halting the City juggernaut. He said he expects a "big reaction" on Saturday but already appears to have settled for a top-four scrap along with London rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal rather than chasing down Liverpool and champions City. "Manchester City are in another category. We have to play and to fight to be in the top four," Sarri said after the setback at Wolves. "City are the best team in Europe, maybe the best in the world. They can win the Champions League." Juergen Klopp's Liverpool, who like City are unbeaten, started without Roberto Firmino, Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane at Burnley on Wednesday but still won 3-1. With a huge 'must-win' Champions League game coming up next week against Napoli, Klopp may well gamble on squad rotation as they travel to seventh-placed Bournemouth for Saturday's early kickoff. Victory for Liverpool would take them top, at least until City's later clash with Chelsea. Third-placed Tottenham Hotspur will also have a massive Champions League night on their minds when they travel to Leicester City on Saturday evening. Manager Mauricio Pochettino will be less than pleased that his side kickoff at 1945 GMT with a trip to Barcelona following on Tuesday -- a game Tottenham will almost certainly have to win to reach the last 16 of the tournament. Fifth-placed Arsenal have no such concerns as they host Huddersfield Town on Saturday looking to extend their unbeaten run in all competitions to 21 matches. Manchester United, who are 18 points behind leaders City and eight adrift of fourth-placed Chelsea after three successive draws, are at home to bottom club Fulham. United boss Jose Mourinho has made 46 changes to his starting lineup already this season and all eyes will be on his selection again as he comes face to face with the original "tinkerman" Claudio Ranieri, now at the helm at Fulham. Mourinho left record signing Paul Pogba on the bench for Wednesday's 2-2 draw at home to Arsenal and also started without Romelu Lukaku but goalscorer Anthony Martial picked up an injury against Arsenal and is a major doubt to face Fulham. Also on Saturday, Burnley host Brighton and Hove Albion while new Southampton boss manager Ralph Hasenhuttl will be in the dugout for the first time as his side take on fellow strugglers Cardiff City. West Ham United will be seeking a third consecutive win when they host Crystal Palace in a London derby.

Biggest test for Sarri as stuttering Chelsea host City

A relieved Maurizio Sarri said his players were too tense after last weekend's mauling by Tottenham Hotspur to kill off bottom-placed Fulham, until substitute Ruben Loftus-Cheek's late strike settled the Blues' 2-0 win on Sunday.

Despite going ahead in the fourth minute when Spain forward Pedro skipped inside his marker to score, Chelsea struggled to show much fluency and were indebted to goal-keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga for denying Fulham an equaliser in the second half.

"Today it was really very important the result," Sarri told reporters. "We needed, I think, to kill the match before but today I think that we were a little bit tense.

"Of course it wasn’t easy in the days after Tottenham -- for me, for the players -- but I think we have talked too much about that match...Today it was important to react."

Spurs beat Chelsea 3-1 last Saturday in a game that could have finished with a much more embarrassing scoreline for Sarri's team who had been undefeated in the league before then.

"In Tottenham, 11 players played very badly. I thought that today it was natural to give them another chance," Sarri said.

Chelsea -- who sit third in the Premier League pending the outcome of Spurs' encounter with Arsenal on Sunday -- will face stiffer tests than Fulham over the next six days.

They visit Wolverhampton Wanderers, one of the surprise success stories of the season so far, on Wednesday and host league leaders Manchester City on Saturday.

Fulham's new coach Claudio Ranieri, who oversaw a 3-2 win against Southampton last weekend in his first match in charge, said he was happy with the performance of his players against Chelsea despite their defeat.

"It’s strange to tell but it is true. I think we played much better today than the Southampton match. We have to continue this way," Ranieri, a former Chelsea manager, said.

During the game, the Italian appeared annoyed as his players wasted chances to punish Chelsea and he vented his frustration in coarse Italian on the touchline.&nbsp;

But he was more measured in his post-match news conference.

"My players must understand better my philosophy because I play very, very fast," Ranieri said.

A relieved Maurizio Sarri said his players were too tense after last weekend's mauling by Tottenham Hotspur to kill off bottom-placed Fulham, until substitute Ruben Loftus-Cheek's late strike settled the Blues' 2-0 win on Sunday.

A relieved Maurizio Sarri said his players were too tense after last weekend's mauling by Tottenham Hotspur to kill off bottom-placed Fulham, until substitute Ruben Loftus-Cheek's late strike settled the Blues' 2-0 win on Sunday. Despite going ahead in the fourth minute when Spain forward Pedro skipped inside his marker to score, Chelsea struggled to show much fluency and were indebted to goal-keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga for denying Fulham an equaliser in the second half. "Today it was really very important the result," Sarri told reporters. "We needed, I think, to kill the match before but today I think that we were a little bit tense. "Of course it wasn’t easy in the days after Tottenham -- for me, for the players -- but I think we have talked too much about that match...Today it was important to react." Spurs beat Chelsea 3-1 last Saturday in a game that could have finished with a much more embarrassing scoreline for Sarri's team who had been undefeated in the league before then. "In Tottenham, 11 players played very badly. I thought that today it was natural to give them another chance," Sarri said. Chelsea -- who sit third in the Premier League pending the outcome of Spurs' encounter with Arsenal on Sunday -- will face stiffer tests than Fulham over the next six days. They visit Wolverhampton Wanderers, one of the surprise success stories of the season so far, on Wednesday and host league leaders Manchester City on Saturday. Fulham's new coach Claudio Ranieri, who oversaw a 3-2 win against Southampton last weekend in his first match in charge, said he was happy with the performance of his players against Chelsea despite their defeat. "It’s strange to tell but it is true. I think we played much better today than the Southampton match. We have to continue this way," Ranieri, a former Chelsea manager, said. During the game, the Italian appeared annoyed as his players wasted chances to punish Chelsea and he vented his frustration in coarse Italian on the touchline. But he was more measured in his post-match news conference. "My players must understand better my philosophy because I play very, very fast," Ranieri said.

Sarri breathes easier as nervous Chelsea sink Fulham

Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri was not happy with Chelsea's performance in a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-held-0-0-by-everton-lose-ground-in-title-race-176699">goalless draw against Everton</a>&nbsp;on Sunday as his side failed to score in a match at Stamford Bridge for the first time this season.

Chelsea could not make their home advantage count against a well-organised Everton.

While addressing the media, Sarri admitted that Chelsea will struggle to challenge. He said, "I didn't like too much the first 25 minutes (of the match), because like in the match against Crytal Palace."

"We started the game moving the ball very slowly, so it was impossible for us to be dangerous, and it was too easy for our opponent to defend," he added.

"We were a little bit unlucky. Of course, I am not happy but I think we are in the right way."

Sarri is unsure why his Chelsea side are starting slowly in matches, but he believes fatigue is not to blame.

"I don't think that the problem is physical because in the last two or three matches the warm up it was the same."&nbsp;

In the second half we played at another speed and intensity, so I don't think the problem is physical.

"Maybe (it's) a mental problem, and we have some difficulties to approach the match from the mental point of view, maybe, I don't know. It is very difficult to answer."

The result left Chelsea in third place on 28 points, two points behind Liverpool and one behind champions Manchester City who host local rivals Manchester United later on Sunday.

"At this moment, the average of points of City and Liverpool are very high. I think about 100 points."

"It's very difficult to stay close to this teams, but I hope a match like this, and our match today, it will happen in the future to other teams," he concluded.

Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri was not happy with Chelsea's performance in a goalless draw against Everton on Sunday as his side failed to score in a match at Stamford Bridge for the first time this season.

Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri was not happy with Chelsea's performance in a goalless draw against Everton on Sunday as his side failed to score in a match at Stamford Bridge for the first time this season. Chelsea could not make their home advantage count against a well-organised Everton. While addressing the media, Sarri admitted that Chelsea will struggle to challenge. He said, "I didn't like too much the first 25 minutes (of the match), because like in the match against Crytal Palace." "We started the game moving the ball very slowly, so it was impossible for us to be dangerous, and it was too easy for our opponent to defend," he added. "We were a little bit unlucky. Of course, I am not happy but I think we are in the right way." Sarri is unsure why his Chelsea side are starting slowly in matches, but he believes fatigue is not to blame. "I don't think that the problem is physical because in the last two or three matches the warm up it was the same." In the second half we played at another speed and intensity, so I don't think the problem is physical. "Maybe (it's) a mental problem, and we have some difficulties to approach the match from the mental point of view, maybe, I don't know. It is very difficult to answer." The result left Chelsea in third place on 28 points, two points behind Liverpool and one behind champions Manchester City who host local rivals Manchester United later on Sunday. "At this moment, the average of points of City and Liverpool are very high. I think about 100 points." "It's very difficult to stay close to this teams, but I hope a match like this, and our match today, it will happen in the future to other teams," he concluded.

Maurizio Sarri 'not happy' with Chelsea's performance, admits team will struggle to challenge

Chelsea's Ruben Loftus-Cheek had a&nbsp;Europa&nbsp;League&nbsp;night to remember by scoring the first hat-trick of his career as the midfielder inspired them to a 3-1 home win over Belarus champions BATE Borisov on Thursday.

Arsenal also celebrated a victory in their group after a late strike by Danny Welbeck secured a 1-0 win over Sporting in Lisbon, while Real Betis pulled off the shock of the evening with a 2-1 win at former European Cup winners AC Milan.

Making the most of a rare start for Maurizio Sarri's side, Loftus-Cheek fired Chelsea ahead in the second minute when he whipped home a low cross by Davide Zappacosta and then doubled their lead six minutes later with a clever touch.

The 22-year-old England international made it 3-0 with a sublime finish in the 54th, side-footing into the bottom left corner from 22 metres after taking a loose ball in his stride.

BATE right back Aleksey Rios netted a 79th-minute consolation for the visitors, whose goalkeeper Denis Scherbitski made several fine saves in the second half.

The result left Chelsea top of Group L with a maximum nine points, while BATE, PAOK Thessaloniki and Hungary's Vidi are locked on three each after Vidi enjoyed a surprise 2-0 win at PAOK.

Arsenal forward Welbeck struck the 79th-minute winner at Sporting with a crisp low shot from 15 metres through the legs of goalkeeper Renan Ribeiro, who had produced a string of good saves in a fast-paced contest.

Arsenal, who recorded their 11th successive win in all competitions to match their best run since October 2007, lead the Group E standings with nine points from three games, while second-placed Sporting are on six.

Miserable week

Milan's miserable week continued following Sunday's 1-0 Serie A defeat by city rivals Inter as goals from Betis' Antonio Sanabria and Giovani Lo Celso condemned the Italians to their first Europa&nbsp;League&nbsp;setback after two wins in Group F.

Sanabria silenced the San Siro crowd when he bundled the ball home from point-blank range on the half-hour and Lo Celso netted a thumping long-range shot shortly after the break.

Patrick Cutrone pulled one back for Milan with an 83rd-minute solo effort but it was too little too late for the winners of seven titles in Europe's elite club competition.

Lazio engineered an impressive 3-1 victory at 1993 European champions Olympique de Marseille, while Sevilla, the winners of a record five&nbsp;Europa&nbsp;League&nbsp;titles, ran riot in a 6-0 home demolition of Turkish rivals Akhisar.

Brazilian defender Wallace headed Lazio into an early lead and Felipe Caicedo made it 2-0 with a cool finish after good work by strike partner Ciro Immobile.

Dimitri Payet gave Marseille a glimmer of hope before Adam Marusic sealed Lazio's win with a superb strike into the top corner in the 90th minute.

RB Leipzig brushed aside Celtic 2-0 to boost their own hopes of reaching the last 32 from Group B where Salzburg maintained their perfect record with a 3-0 rout of Norwegians Rosenborg.

Clinical first-half finishing by Matheus Cunha and Bruma gave Leipzig a home victory over Celtic, while Salzburg made it three wins from three games with a Munas Dabbur double and a third goal from Hannes Wolf despatching Rosenborg.

FC Zurich led and then had to come from behind to beat Bayer Leverkusen 3-2 at home and Zenit St Petersburg also fought back from a goal down to beat Girondins Bordeaux 2-1 at home although Artyem Dzyuba missed a penalty for the Russian side.

Two quickfire goals in the second half enabled Fenerbahce to recover from a 2-0 deficit and force a 2-2 draw at Anderlecht while Dinamo Zagreb made it three wins in a row in Group D after coming from a goal down to beat Spartak Trnava 2-1 away.

In Group G, Rangers were held to a 0-0 home draw by Spartak Moscow as Villarreal crushed Rapid Vienna 5-0. Rangers and Villarreal have five points each ahead of Rapid on three.

Chelsea's Ruben Loftus-Cheek had a Europa League night to remember by scoring the first hat-trick of his career as the midfielder inspired them to a 3-1 home win over Belarus champions BATE Borisov on Thursday.

Chelsea's Ruben Loftus-Cheek had a Europa League night to remember by scoring the first hat-trick of his career as the midfielder inspired them to a 3-1 home win over Belarus champions BATE Borisov on Thursday. Arsenal also celebrated a victory in their group after a late strike by Danny Welbeck secured a 1-0 win over Sporting in Lisbon, while Real Betis pulled off the shock of the evening with a 2-1 win at former European Cup winners AC Milan. Making the most of a rare start for Maurizio Sarri's side, Loftus-Cheek fired Chelsea ahead in the second minute when he whipped home a low cross by Davide Zappacosta and then doubled their lead six minutes later with a clever touch. The 22-year-old England international made it 3-0 with a sublime finish in the 54th, side-footing into the bottom left corner from 22 metres after taking a loose ball in his stride. BATE right back Aleksey Rios netted a 79th-minute consolation for the visitors, whose goalkeeper Denis Scherbitski made several fine saves in the second half. The result left Chelsea top of Group L with a maximum nine points, while BATE, PAOK Thessaloniki and Hungary's Vidi are locked on three each after Vidi enjoyed a surprise 2-0 win at PAOK. Arsenal forward Welbeck struck the 79th-minute winner at Sporting with a crisp low shot from 15 metres through the legs of goalkeeper Renan Ribeiro, who had produced a string of good saves in a fast-paced contest. Arsenal, who recorded their 11th successive win in all competitions to match their best run since October 2007, lead the Group E standings with nine points from three games, while second-placed Sporting are on six. Miserable week Milan's miserable week continued following Sunday's 1-0 Serie A defeat by city rivals Inter as goals from Betis' Antonio Sanabria and Giovani Lo Celso condemned the Italians to their first Europa League setback after two wins in Group F. Sanabria silenced the San Siro crowd when he bundled the ball home from point-blank range on the half-hour and Lo Celso netted a thumping long-range shot shortly after the break. Patrick Cutrone pulled one back for Milan with an 83rd-minute solo effort but it was too little too late for the winners of seven titles in Europe's elite club competition. Lazio engineered an impressive 3-1 victory at 1993 European champions Olympique de Marseille, while Sevilla, the winners of a record five Europa League titles, ran riot in a 6-0 home demolition of Turkish rivals Akhisar. Brazilian defender Wallace headed Lazio into an early lead and Felipe Caicedo made it 2-0 with a cool finish after good work by strike partner Ciro Immobile. Dimitri Payet gave Marseille a glimmer of hope before Adam Marusic sealed Lazio's win with a superb strike into the top corner in the 90th minute. RB Leipzig brushed aside Celtic 2-0 to boost their own hopes of reaching the last 32 from Group B where Salzburg maintained their perfect record with a 3-0 rout of Norwegians Rosenborg. Clinical first-half finishing by Matheus Cunha and Bruma gave Leipzig a home victory over Celtic, while Salzburg made it three wins from three games with a Munas Dabbur double and a third goal from Hannes Wolf despatching Rosenborg. FC Zurich led and then had to come from behind to beat Bayer Leverkusen 3-2 at home and Zenit St Petersburg also fought back from a goal down to beat Girondins Bordeaux 2-1 at home although Artyem Dzyuba missed a penalty for the Russian side. Two quickfire goals in the second half enabled Fenerbahce to recover from a 2-0 deficit and force a 2-2 draw at Anderlecht while Dinamo Zagreb made it three wins in a row in Group D after coming from a goal down to beat Spartak Trnava 2-1 away. In Group G, Rangers were held to a 0-0 home draw by Spartak Moscow as Villarreal crushed Rapid Vienna 5-0. Rangers and Villarreal have five points each ahead of Rapid on three.

Loftus-Cheek treble boosts Chelsea, Arsenal edge Sporting

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