Eden Hazard admits that Chelsea players are still adapting to Sarri’s style of football
Chelsea’s star forward Eden Hazard admits that Chelsea players are still adapting to new style of football of Maurizio Sarri. The Belgian though believes that the club are benefiting from his different approach of the game.
The former Napoli boss made a dream start to life at Stamford Bridge, not losing any of the first 12 league games. However, things have taken a bit of a wobble since, and they are now 12 points behind the leaders Manchester City.
As a consequence of some mediocre results, the manager’s tactics has been questioned by many.
But, speaking to the Times, Hazard noted a difference between Sarri and former bosses. While he admits that he understands the frustration around, the Belgian insists that he enjoys playing football under a “great” manager in Sarri.
He said: “Possession! Possession! The manager likes possession! He’s a lot about statistics. Numbers. Possession. Shooting. Goal opportunity.
“In the past we used to play more counterattack. It is different with Sarri than with Conte and Mourinho. Sometimes we keep possession, and I understand the fans want us to go forward [more directly], but it is part of the football.
“We are still learning about his concept. We are doing well. I like this kind of football.
“Sarri is a great manager. He’s an old man but the way he thinks is the same way I think about football.
“When we have the ball, we have a lot of freedom, not just me but the striker [Gonzalo Higuaín] and the right [attacker] Willian or Pedro, so we can move a lot.”
Chelsea face defending champions Manchester City this Sunday in a potentially epic clash at the Etihad.
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