Maurizio Sarri has suggested he won’t be making any tactical changes at Chelsea, calling it a “false problem”.
The Italian is under enormous pressure heading into Sunday EFL Cup final against Manchester City.
Defeat at Wembley will reportedly cost him his job, following an increasingly problematic first season at Stamford Bridge.
There has been much criticism of Sarri’s this season, so much so that Chelsea supporters have been heard singing “F*** Sarri-ball” in recent times, including during Monday’s FA Cup fifth round defeat at home to Manchester United.
Speaking to reporters, the 60-year-old says his style of play is not the issue, however:
The system is a false problem.
It’s very easy to change the fan’s opinions. We need to win three or four matches in a row. It’s the only solution. The fans are used to winning. There isn’t another way.
Of course right now it is very difficult to think that we are able to win three or four matches in a row. But in football, everything can change in one day.
First of all we need a good performance. A good result. Then, with more confidence, we can do everything.
I have to think that I will be the manager of Chelsea for a long time, otherwise I cannot work. I am not sure it will work, but I have to think this. I want to work with a long-term target.
We are trying to solve our problems. We are trying to talk with the players. We are trying to avoid mistakes.
The Blues host Malmo in the Europa League on Thursday evening, leading 2-1 from the first leg.
Sarri’s future is unlikely to be decided there, however, but if his players don’t perform this weekend, the writing could be on the wall for him.
On the flip side, beating City and securing a trophy in his maiden year in English football would make it difficult for Chelsea to sack him in the near future.
