Former Napoli manager Maurizio Sarri is officially the successor to another Italian at Premier League side Chelsea and well, it's safe to say that the 59-year-old is a huge personality.
Sarri, who led the Serie A side to two second-place finishes in three seasons at the Stadio San Paolo, has said he will bring entertaining football to Stamford Bridge after their disappointing campaign last season.
Advert
He was known as a real character during his time in Italy and was snapped smoking on the sidelines and being escorted by bodyguards to the pitch.
Bundesliga side even built a temporary wall in the away changing room to split the physio area and allow him space to smoke pre kick off and at half and full time.
The thing is though, we won't be seeing Sarri smoking inside Stamford Bridge because smoking was banned from all stadiums in July 2007, which obviously means the 59-year-old wouldn't be able to spark up during the 90 minutes.
Advert
Sarri actually averages around 5 packets of cigarettes a day, so it might be a tough one for the Italian.
On Chelsea's official website, it clearly states:
"SMOKING POLICY: IS THERE ANYWHERE TO SMOKE DURING THE MATCH?
In accordance with Smokefree England, it is against the law to smoke anywhere inside the stadium at Stamford Bridge. This includes the use of e-cigarettes."
I'm not sure if he'll need bodyguards, either, but Sarri was certainly optimistic about a new chapter in his life and reckons Chelsea should be competing for trophies in the coming months.
Advert
"It is an exciting new period in my career," said Sarri.
"I hope we can provide some entertaining football for our fans and that we will be competing for trophies at the end of the season, which is what this club deserves."
Will Sarri lead Chelsea to glory next season? Can they compete with the likes of Manchester City and Manchester United?
Advert
Let us know in the comments.
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Football News, Chelsea, Football, Premier League, Italy
