Well then.
On what had previously been something of a slow news day, Chelsea have gone and sent social media into chaos by officially announcing that Maurizio Sarri has left for Juventus.
It's not hugely surprising to be quite honest - reports have been rife for weeks that the move would happen sooner rather than later - but some fans were caught off-guard nonetheless.
Thank you and good luck for the future, Maurizio. pic.twitter.com/dGHzekBNPT
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) June 16, 2019
The general sentiment was one of gratitude towards the Italian, who was often treated harshly by fans and media alike, despite an ultimately strong season as Chelsea manager, with most fans less than happy to see him go.
Maybe in another life things would be different. Its a shame the treatment he got, but I am so happy he succeeded and got a trophy with this underwhelming side.
— Lav (@LavCFC) June 16, 2019
Grazie Maurizio Sarri.
Not treated right. Thanks Maurizio and goodluck in the future
— The Blues (@TheBlues___) June 16, 2019
— 헝헬 (@Yardley_7) June 16, 2019
— Enock Lennox (@enock_lennoxx) June 16, 2019
Predictably, though, it was something of a polarising issue. There were certainly one or two less than sympathetic responses doing the rounds, from Chelsea supporters and otherwise.
— CFC Away Info (@cfcawayinfo_) June 16, 2019
ANNOUNCMENT:
— Absolute Chelsea (@AbsoluteChelsea) June 16, 2019
Kepa Arrizabalaga will take over all first-team duties from Maurizio Sarri until a replacement is found. #CFC pic.twitter.com/SqQyBOaT3s
Fifa: Chelsea handed two-window transfer ban.
— DAN (@Scouse_maestro) June 16, 2019
Sarri: pic.twitter.com/El3Q0uxH1y
Who's next for the Blues? It was rumoured last week that the club would not sign off on Sarri's departure until a replacement was lined up, with Frank Lampard the overwhelming favourite after a (sort of) successful first season at Derby...
— CFC Daily (@CFCDaily) June 16, 2019
— Nathan Harding (@HardingHimself) June 16, 2019
— (@Arrizabalager) June 16, 2019
As exciting as it would be to have a Chelsea legend at the helm, however, some are getting a bit ahead of themselves...
Ready when you are 爛路♂️ #announcelampard @ChelseaFC pic.twitter.com/k7Pmec9Jv7
— Joshua James (@JoshJarrett8) June 16, 2019
Source : 90min