At least he’s honest
Maurizio Sarri has admitted he “does not know” how to beat Manchester City, ahead of Chelsea’s clash with the league leaders.
Manchester City are still undefeated this season, having only dropped four points in draws against Liverpool and Wolves. Chelsea, meanwhile, have lost two of their last three games, against Wolves and Tottenham Hotspur.
Sarri, much like Guardiola, is wedded to a philosophy focussed on short passing and quick interplay, which could serve City well. History shows us that when you try to play Pep at his own game, he normally comes out on top.
In his pre-match press conference, Sarri was asked what the best way to play against City was. The Italian frankly admitted “I don’t know. Against Guardiola, I lost every game, so you’ll have to ask someone else.”
https://youtu.be/TfTPJrgP1XM?t=397
Tottenham were able to nullify Chelsea’s attacking threat by restricting the space that Jorginho was given to operate in. Chelsea will always try to build up their attacking moves through their regista, but restrict him space and you restrict the whole team.
Don’t be surprised to see Guardiola use a similar tactic and put one of his midfielders on Jorginho whenever Chelsea have the ball.
Sarri and Guardiola met in the Champions League group stage last season when Sarri was still at Napoli, with Manchester City winning both matches 2-1 and 4-2.
This afternoon’s clash at Stamford Bridge should be full of goals, if past meetings are anything to go by.
