Sarri told Fabregas to go, says replacement must be signed

Matt Stead

Head coach Maurizio Sarri advised Cesc Fabregas to leave Chelsea for the good of his career.

The 31-year-old’s contract expires at the end of this season and he appeared to say goodbye to Chelsea after Saturday’s 2-0 FA Cup win over Nottingham Forest, where he applauded all sides of the ground.

With Chelsea offering one-year contracts for players aged over 30, Sarri said Fabregas should accept the two-year deal on the table from Monaco.

“In my opinion, he needs to go,” said Sarri, speaking ahead of Tuesday’s Carabao Cup semi-final first leg with Tottenham at Wembley.

“You know very well the situation. You know very well in this club there is a rule: the renewal of players over 30 is usually one year.

“He has an offer for two years. I don’t want a very important player as Cesc unhappy.”

Sarri said Fabregas suffered cramp against Forest and may not be available to face Spurs, although Eden Hazard and David Luiz were among those to suggest afterwards that the game had been Fabregas’ farewell.

The Blues boss said Fabregas had a “free day” on Sunday, refusing to confirm or deny reports the playmaker went to France to meet with Monaco.

The Italian said Fabregas must be replaced if he leaves.

“If Cesc will go, of course we need a replacement,” Sarri added.

“Now, with the midfielders we are in trouble, I think.

“Without Cesc we have only five, so we are in trouble. We need a replacement.”