Chelsea have confirmed that Maurizio Sarri asked to join Juventus so he could be closer to his family.
Explaining the motives for his decision to return to Italy, Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia told the club’s official website: “In talks we had following the Europa League Final, Maurizio made it clear how strongly he desired to return to his native country, explaining that his reasons for wanting to return to work in Italy were significant,” she told the club’s official website.
“He also believed it important to be nearer his family, and for the well-being of his elderly parents he felt he needed to live closer to them at this point.
“Maurizio leaves Chelsea with thanks from us all for the work he and his assistants did during the season he spent as our head coach, and for winning the Europa League, guiding us to another cup final and a third-place finish in the Premier League.
“We would also like to congratulate him on securing the role as big as any in Serie A and to wish him the best of luck for the future.”
The former Napoli boss hails from Tuscany in northern Italy, while his father Amerigo turns 91 later this year.
Despite being a divisive figure, the Blues’ statement to announce his exit far exceeds the 61 words they used to wave off Antonio Conte last summer.
Thank you and good luck for the future, Maurizio. pic.twitter.com/dGHzekBNPT
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) June 16, 2019
