Gianfranco Zola will join Maurizio Sarri’s Chelsea staff, said his agent, as he “profoundly admires” the new Coach.
The announcement finally came this morning that Napoli had terminated the contract by mutual consent and Sarri had therefore signed a three-year deal at Stamford Bridge.
“We’re nearly there between my client and Chelsea for the role of assistant manager,” Zola’s agent Fulvio Marrucco told CalcioNapoli24.
Gianfranco Zola will join Maurizio Sarri’s Chelsea staff, said his agent, as he “profoundly admires” the new Coach.
The announcement finally came this morning that Napoli had terminated the contract by mutual consent and Sarri had therefore signed a three-year deal at Stamford Bridge.
“We’re nearly there between my client and Chelsea for the role of assistant manager,” Zola’s agent Fulvio Marrucco told CalcioNapoli24.
“It was a difficult negotiation process between Sarri and the Blues, as it was only resolved overnight.
“I think Sarri can do well anywhere. Clearly, he’ll need a period to adjust and the players have to be concentrated on the project.
“I am optimistic, I think the fans will be as delighted in London as they are in Manchester City with Pep Guardiola.
“Zola has decided to be Sarri’s assistant manager because he profoundly admires him. He is one of the Coaches that he has the most affection for, along with Guardiola.
“Zola’s support will be fundamental, as there are different habits here, even just when it comes to talking to the players.”
Zola is a Chelsea icon, having played for the club from January 1997 to the summer of 2003.
Meanwhile, Zola also spoke to Sky Sport Italia about his admiration for Sarri.
“I was really impressed by his Empoli side. He always wants to dominate the game and anyone who loves football can’t help but love him.
“Empoli were a small club, but played with a completely different attitude from the other sides who were fighting against relegation. They acted like a big team, were always positive.
“Then he arrived at Napoli and his talent became obvious to everyone. He is a Coach who always tries to take the initiative and the results speak for him.
“Anyone who loves football had to love his Napoli last season.”