The Chelsea Chronicle’s Ben Morse looks at how the two Italians compare after their first 16 Premier League games at Stamford Bridge.
Premier League record: Conte – W13, D1, L2; Sarri – W10, D4, L2
“In their 16th game of the season, Conte’s Chelsea side had just won 1-0 away at Sunderland thanks to Cesc Fabregas’ first-half strike. It was a hard-fought win for the Blues, who were missing key men Eden Hazard and Nemanja Matic.”
“In contrast, Sarri earned probably his most impressive win as Chelsea manager in his 16th game as he beat the impressive Manchester City 2-0. Sarri’s side have been trying to take on board his philosophies and did so emphatically against the reigning champions.”
Premier League position: Conte – 1st (six points clear of 2nd); Sarri – 4th (eight points off 1st)
“Chelsea moved six points clear at the top of the Premier League following their win over Sunderland. And having lost 3-0 to Arsenal in late September, the win was Chelsea’s 10th consecutive league victory.”
“In contrast, Sarri’s Chelsea are way off the pace in the league, and are tied with fifth-placed Arsenal. But Chelsea’s first defeat of the season to Spurs a month ago snapped their 12 game unbeaten start to the season.”