Maurizio Sarri admits he has been pleasantly surprised by David Luiz since his appointment at Chelsea.
The Brazil international appeared destined for the Stamford Bridge exit door for the second time in his career after falling out with Antonio Conte last season.
Sarris appointment, however, has coincided with Luizs return to the starting line-up and he has subsequently produced a series of outstanding displays.
The 31-year-old was among Chelseas best players in Saturdays enthralling 1-1 draw with Premier League leaders Liverpool and Sarri believes the former PSG star is ideal for the brand of football he is attempting to instill.
I have to say he is better than I thought before, really better, Sarri said of Luiz. As a player and as a man.
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I dont know [what happened] before, but when I arrived here immediately I had the feeling he is a very good player for my way of football because he is a very technical centre-back. Then, I appreciate very much the man.
He is direct. If he has to say something to the manager, to talk to me, he [comes] direct to me.
I like very much direct people. He was a little confused [when I arrived] because two seasons ago he was a protagonist [in the team], and then [he went] six months without playing.
I think he is very sweet, able to play my football for his characteristics. He is very technical, he is able to start very well the action from the defensive line, so hes very suitable for me.
More: Chelsea FC
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Maurizio Sarri admits he has been pleasantly surprised by David Luiz since his appointment at Chelsea.
The Brazil international appeared destined for the Stamford Bridge exit door for the second time in his career after falling out with Antonio Conte last season.
Sarris appointment, however, has coincided with Luizs return to the starting line-up and he has subsequently produced a series of outstanding displays.
The 31-year-old was among Chelseas best players in Saturdays enthralling 1-1 draw with Premier League leaders Liverpool and Sarri believes the former PSG star is ideal for the brand of football he is attempting to instill.
I have to say he is better than I thought before, really better, Sarri said of Luiz. As a player and as a man.
Advertisement Advertisement
I dont know [what happened] before, but when I arrived here immediately I had the feeling he is a very good player for my way of football because he is a very technical centre-back. Then, I appreciate very much the man.
He is direct. If he has to say something to the manager, to talk to me, he [comes] direct to me.
I like very much direct people. He was a little confused [when I arrived] because two seasons ago he was a protagonist [in the team], and then [he went] six months without playing.
I think he is very sweet, able to play my football for his characteristics. He is very technical, he is able to start very well the action from the defensive line, so hes very suitable for me.
More: Chelsea FC
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