CONTE’S £9m EXIT

Chelsea pay off boss, clearing way for Sarri to take charge

ANTONIO Conte’s time as Chelsea manager came to an end yesterday with Maurizio Sarri poised to take over.

There was no confirmation from Stamford Bridge of Conte’s exit but an afternoon training session was cancelled as the change moved a step closer.

Cesc Fabregas and former captain John Terry posted messages of thanks on social media, although several players were known to be considering their futures if the manager stayed. Chelsea have agreed a compensatograph tion package worth up to £9million with Conte, who had one year left on his contract.

They are in process of clearing out his backroom staff so former Napoli boss Sarri can start ahead of the first pre-season fixture in Australia a week on Monday. Gianfranco Zola will return to Chelsea on Sarri’s staff.

Chelsea have been casting around for successors to Conte since midway through last season. The Italian won the Premier League in his first season and the FA Cup in his second but his relationship with the board was damaged beyond repair last summer.

He flirted with Inter Milan, ostracised popular striker Diego Costa and failed to communicate with the club during a tense summer. He returned with a series of public complaints about the lack of transfer business. Form went awry and players turned against him as his mood darkened and outbursts became more regular.

When Chelsea won the FA Cup, Willian posted a celebratory pho- on Instagram in which Conte was obscured by trophy emojis. It was noted at the club that Willian was one of the most placid squad members and if he felt that way then others did too.

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich had been reluctant to pay Conte’s compensation on a point of principle. He hoped the Italian might find another job but the manager dug in for the money.

Sarri has been replaced in Naples by Carlo Ancelotti, but he remained under contract, so Abramovich was forced to negotiate compensation for his release.

Meanwhile, Barcelona have made an improved £60million offer for Willian after Chelsea rejected their initial £50m bid.