Luis Enrique has dropped a huge hint he could be set to join Chelsea and replace current manager Antonio Conte in next summer. Former Barcelona manager, without a club since his departure from Catalonia late last season, would become the favorite.
Enrique finished his managerial career at Barcelona in 2017, with a record total of nine titles won out of thirteen possible a World Club, a Champions League, two Supercopa de Espana, two La Liga, and three Copa del Rey.
Conte is under pressure after Chelsea’s recent defeats against Bournemouth and Watford in Premier League. After a good first year with a title of Premier League obtained, the Italian manager knows a second season more complicated.
Due to tensions with Chelsea’s management, Conte already had an uncertain future in the London club, but his recent poor results could cause his departure during the season. According to British media, former Juventus manager will play his future on the next two games.
“I work every day, and I give 120 percent, OK? If this is enough, it’s OK. Otherwise, the club can take a different decision. Every day and every press conference, you ask me if I’m worried.” Conte said.
“No, I’m not worried. I can be the Chelsea manager or not. Which is the problem? In this kind of situation, it’s manager’s fault.” Conte added.
Chelsea had fallen 19 points behind Manchester City in the Premier League title race and their chances to win a silverware remains in the cup games.
Ironically, Enrique could thus make his debut at the head of Chelsea against his former club. Indeed, the Blues will face FC Barcelona in the first leg of the first knockout round of the Champions League on February 20.
UEFA Champions League match Chelsea vs Barcelona on February 20. (Source:www.90min.in)
The 47-year old man is also keen on bringing in former his staffs Juan Carles Unzue, Roberto- Moreno, Rafael Pol and Joaquin Valdes but they are currently in the middle campaign at La Liga club Celta Vigo.
Meanwhile, AC Milan manager Massimiliano Allegri, Napoli manager Maurizio Sarri, Monaco manager Leonardo Jardim, and Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone are in the frame to take up Chelsea job in next summer.
