Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri speaks to press conference following a 2-0 defeat by Manchester United in the FA Cup at Stamford Bridge, on Monday.
United won thanks to first-half goals from Ander Herrera and Paul Pogba, and they prevented Chelsea seriously testing goalkeeper Sergio Romero.
“I think with the result we were unlucky because in the first half we played better than the opponent and at the end of the first half it was 2-0,” Sarri said.
“In the second half it was really very difficult to play. They are a very physical team and defended low and compact. We played confusing football in the second half but in the first half we played well.
“We need to be more aggressive and determined with situations in our box and the opposition box because the difference was there. We played 78 balls in the opposing box and United played only 16 in ours, but the result was 2-0, so that was the difference.” Sarri added.
The Blues lacklustre fifth round exit, their first FA CUP defeat since 2017 final, was another painful blow for Sarri, who is facing a fight to save his job following a dismal debut season. However, the former Napoli manager believes he has the full support of his players.
“I think so. Of course I’m not sure, but I think so. I think the situation with the players is very good in terms of our relationship but that’s not so important. What’s important is to play and get good results but my relationship with the players at the moment is good.” Sarri said.
Manchester United celebrate Paul Pogba scoring their second goals at Chelsea. (Source:www.scroll.in)
“I’m worried about the results, not the fans. Of course I can understand the situation and I can understand our fans because the result wasn’t good and we are out of the FA Cup, but I’m worried at the moment about our results.
“It’s very easy to create a more positive feeling. If we are able to win three or four matches in a row it will be very easy. It’s difficult to win five matches in a row.” he added.
Chelsea suffered their heaviest defeat for 28 years when they were hammered 6-0 at Manchester City on Feb 2, and embarrassment that came just weeks after humiliating 4-0 loss at Bournemouth.
