Following the disastrous Premier league match against Manchester City - in which Chelsea lost 6-0 - fifteen points now separates Maurizio Sarri's Blues from Pep Guardiola's City. A match that did not sit will for the management (or supporters) of the club, Sarri's role as manager is reported to be at risk: Chelsea already seems to be evaluating possible replacements for the 60-year-old Italian. However, on Sunday, there will be a chance at redemption as the two sides will meet at the Carabao Cup final - a match that could be decisive for Sarri. To speak to reporters about the situation was Guardiola, defending Sarri. In short, he has stated that it has been a rather complicated first year for the Italian.
"The situation is a little bit different. In my first year, the club never doubted me. It was never in the media that I'd be sacked if they lose this game or the other game. It never happened. Sometimes the situation is difficult and it needs time. The first season with Maurizio is the same. You need time but the people supported me here. The players knew who the manager was and everybody is in the right situation. After that you can win or lose but it is stable. That is the best way to build something for a long time, not just a short period. My opinion of Sarri and his teams is always high. When we reviewed the game against us, maybe people don't believe me but they did incredible things."
