Maurizio Sarri praises ‘direct’ David Luiz, a ‘confused’ player under Antonio Conte

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri believes David Luiz was a “confused” player when the Italian took over in the summer, but is enjoying the direct manner in which the defender will challenge his decisions.

Brazilian Luiz’s Stamford Bridge career appeared over under former manager Antonio Conte, yet since Sarri arrived he has been a regular starter in central defence.

Against Liverpool on Saturday Luiz, 31, showed a different side to his game than the often erratic performances we have become used to, unafraid to boot the ball clear but combining that no-nonsense play with some impressive attacking passing.

‘Very technical’

“He was a little confused as two seasons ago he was a protagonist but then came six months without playing,” Sarri said after the draw. “So he was a little confused. I think he is very able to play my way with his characteristics. He is very technical and understands the action of the defensive line very much.”

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Sarri revealed that, unlike Conte, he prefers players who are direct and confrontational and has been enjoying that side of Luiz. “He is much better than I thought before,” Sarri said. “Much better, as a player and a man. I don’t know what happened before but when I arrived immediately I had a feeling he is a very good player for my way of football as he is a very technical centre back. I appreciate very much the man as he is direct. If he has to say something to me, he does that. I like direct people.”