News about Chelsea as Roberto De Zerbi, who has talked a lot about life after Brighton, enters the race to succeed Mauricio Pochettino.
Roberto De Zerbi is keen to manage in England again amid links with Chelsea (Image: David Rogers/Getty Images)
Roberto De Zerbi has talked about his future a lot, considering how short his stay in England has been. He is already searching for a new club, having joined Brighton in the Premier League less than two years ago.
Football.london understands that he is one of four men Chelsea is considering from a shortlist, and he is more seasoned than Enzo Maresca or Kieran McKenna. Thomas Frank has a reputation from his excellent work at Brentford, but he did not finish as high as De Zerbi did the previous season.
Following his appointment in September 2022 to succeed Graham Potter, the Italian has experienced an incredible ascent and subsequent decline. In addition to leading the Seagulls to a sixth-place finish and the club’s first-ever European campaign, he also got the team to the FA Cup semi-final, where they lost on penalties against Manchester United.
However, his first (and only) full season on the south coast was marred by injuries that prevented him from making progress and by the sale of important players who were not replaced. Brighton announced that they would be parting ways with the 44-year-old after only finishing 11th in 2023–2024.
It was announced during rumors of a season-long departure. Following the confirmation of Jurgen Klopp’s departure in February, De Zerbi was heavily linked to Liverpool; however, he has not yet been signed by a new team.
“There isn’t a club and nobody is providing anything. Nothing right now,” he remarked following United’s victory on the final day of play last weekend. “My goal is to return to work in the Premier League.” When and where are unknown to me. However, working in the Premier League was an honor.”
He also has no concerns about taking a break from the game. He clarified about his role, saying, “For sure, if I have to stay at home three, four, or five months, it should not be a problem because I will work.” “I’ll work on researching various teams, games, and coaching philosophies.
Football is a developing sport. Every year is unique, so maintaining your current level is essential if you hope to remain at the top. It’s difficult for me without football, but I’ll smoke more cigarettes!
“I’m hoping to figure it out before the season begins. However, there isn’t a team at the moment. Sure, I want to work, but in the interim I’ll watch roughly 100 games a week while I wait for the next opportunity or solution.
When he announced his departure, he also shared some details about his future plans. He said, “I am very proud of what my players and staff have achieved with the support of everyone at the club and our amazing fans in the past two historic seasons, but I am also very sad to be leaving Brighton.”
“Working in the Premier League for the past two years has been incredibly intense and challenging, especially this season when I’ve participated in four major competitions. I can take a break before deciding on my future plans if I leave now.
