Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri says that his task as Napoli manager was simplified thanks to his predecessor Rafael Benitez. Sarri took over from Benitez in 2015 after the latter resigned at the end of the season. Under Benitez, Napoli won the Coppa Italia and the Superoppa Italiana.
Sarri had a terrific stint at Napoli. He helped the club finish Serie A runners-up in two of his three seasons in charge. Sarri’s stint with Napoli was the reason Chelsea roped him in. Sarri and Benitez will meet at St. James’ Park tomorrow where Chelsea take on Newcastle. The Italian has said that he will thank Benitez for making things easier for him at the Naples club.
Sarri said, “I have to say thank you to Rafa because when I arrived in Naples I had a feeling the team was almost ready to play my football. If I arrived after another coach maybe for me it was more difficult, so I have to say thank you to him. I know he is a very good coach. We know on Sunday it will be very difficult for us.
These opponents are very dangerous for us; last season we lost 3-0, Manchester United lost there, Arsenal lost there, so we know it will be a very difficult day.”
