Manager Search
Chelsea’s search for a new manager continues – despite Antonio Conte still being in charge. The Italian remains in the Chelsea dugout, but that hasn’t stopped the rumour mill go into overdrive this week. The first piece of news is that Luis Enrique has said that he is yet to be excited by a potential managerial job, despite apparent interest from Chelsea. The Spaniard said:
“There has been interest from clubs, but it has to be something that really excites me.”
Elsewhere, AS Monaco manager Leonardo Jardim is another to be linked with the managerial job at Stamford Bridge. Reports have claimed that the Blues have made initial inquiries for the Venezuelan manager. Jardim has been with Monaco since 2014, and won the Ligue 1 title in the 2016/17 season.
Another report has claimed that Juventus manager Max Allegri has told Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich that he is ready to take over at Stamford Bridge. Reports suggest the Italian is keen for a new challenge after guiding Juventus to numerous Serie A titles, and believes he could make an impact in the Premier League.
Cech’s Reasoning
Petr Cech has revealed the reasons behind his decision to leave Chelsea in 2015, and why he chose to move across London to Arsenal. After 11 trophy-laden years with the Blues, the return of Thibaut Courtois forced Cech to the bench at Stamford Bridge, and ultimately a move away from the club. Almost three years on from his departure, the Czech has spoken of his decision:
“It was the hardest decision I have made, I felt so good and in good form that it would be a waste to sit on the bench.
“I considered the fans heavily but sometimes you need to make the right decisions.
“I had offers from different clubs and different leagues but I wanted to stay in the Premier League.”
Robben Reveals All
Another former Chelsea player has opened up about his spell at the club – Arjen Robben has revealed why he chose Chelsea over a move to Manchester United back in 2004. The Dutchman had this to say:
“I had a very good conversation with Alex Ferguson over dinner in Manchester and we spoke about football and life.
“There was no real contact [from United] and the deal didn’t happen. PSV were also negotiating with Chelsea at that time, so maybe they offered PSV more money? I don’t really know.
“I spoke to Chelsea and I liked their plans. We had one meeting and everything was done pretty quickly.
“Had Manchester United offered me a deal straight after I met them, I would have signed there, but it didn’t happen and I’ve got no regrets.”
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