Former Napoli manager Maurizio Sarri could spurn Chelsea in favour of signing for Watford. The Italian’s representatives had flown to London on Thursday to meet with Chelsea officials. However, Antonio Conte is still in the job and Sarri could join the Hornets instead as Javi Gracia’s future looks indoubt.
Maurizio Sarri to Chelsea?
According to the Evening Standard, Sarri is still waiting for Chelsea to make a formal offer. There are rumblings from Stamford Bridge that the Blues are second guessing whether or not to sack Conte. It has left Sarri in limbo.
It was reported earlier this week that Sarri had met with Watford owner Giampaolo Pozzo in Udinese. The Pozzo family own both Watford and Udinese, and there is a chance Sarri was quizzed over whether he would be interested in taking the Watford job.
Sarri is said to be in favour of a move to the Premier League. The manager wants to try his hand in the English top-flight after leading Napoli to three consecutive top three finishes in Serie A. Sarri left the club following the end of the Serie A season. Napoli have already appointed for Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti as coach for next season.
With Conte’s future uncertain, Sarri could join Watford before Chelsea make a decision. Javi Gracia is being linked with a move to Spain to manage Real Sociedad. If he leaves, it would free up the Watford position regardless.
There is also the chance Sarri could turn down both Premier League jobs and sign with Russia’s Zenit St. Petersburg. The club has offered Sarri a £5 million a season contract. Although he would prefer to join Chelsea or Watford, there is an outside chance Sarri could end up at Zenit.
Sarri is an old-school manager who goes to great depths to teach his players tactics and routines. Although he has had success in Italy, manager in the Premier League will be an brand new task for the 59-year-old Italian.
Should Chelsea sign Maurizio Sarri or keep a hold of Antonio Conte?
