Maurizio Sarri reveals Willian meeting after reporting late for Chelsea training

The Italian manager is confident the winger will remain at Stamford Bridge (Picture: Getty)

Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri has revealed that he’s held positive talks with Willian after the Brazilian turned up for training late this summer.
The Brazilian – who has been heavily linked with a transfer to Manchester United – missed five days of Chelsea’s pre-season tour because he failed to renew his passport, though belatedly returned to training on Wednesday.
Sarri described the situation as ‘strange’ earlier this week, but after speaking to Willian he is happy to welcome him back into the fold.

Willian was back in training at Cobham on Wednesday (Picture: Chelsea/Getty)

Ahead of Sunday’s Community Shield showdown with Manchester City, Sarri explained: ‘I spoke yesterday with him about his lateness.
‘Not about his future. It was a very positive conversation so I am happy about it. I think there is not a Willian problem.’
Probed on whether he thought Willian would stay at Chelsea, Sarri replied: ‘Yes I do. [I’m] very confident.’
Although Willian has only had a few training sessions under Sarri, the Italian admits he could yet call on the 29-year-old against Premier League champions City if he impresses in the coming training sessions.

Sarri is happy to welcome Willian back into his squad ahead of Sunday’s game (Getty)

Asked if any of his World Cup stars would start on Sunday, Sarri continued: ‘I don’t know. I want to see the last two training sessions.
‘Maybe the starting XI will be very, very near to the last match. But maybe something different can happen. I don’t know. I want to see the last two training sessions and then tomorrow morning I will decide.’