Willian will stay ―Sarri

Maurizio Sarri, the Chelsea manager, insists there is no lingering problem between himself and Willian and is confident the midfielder will remain at Stamford Bridge, despite continuing interest from Real Madrid.

Willian was due back at the club last Friday following World Cup duty with Brazil, but instead returned five days late on Wednesday, citing passport problems as the reason for his delay. Sarri admitted the delay was ‘strange’ when asked about the player’s absence following his side’s friendly with Arsenal in Dublin this week but refused to comment further on the matter until he had discussed the matter with the South American.

The pair met on Thursday when Willian joined in with training and having met with the player, Sarri, who was appointed as Antonio Conte’s successor this summer, declared himself satisfied with the outcome. “I spoke with him yesterday about him being late,” said the manager. “It was a very positive conversation so I am happy about it. I think there is not a Willian problem.”

The winger, 29, has been linked with a £65 million move away with Manchester United also keen on luring the player away from Chelsea. Sarri, though, is satisfied Willian will remain a key part of his squad. “I think he will stay,” added the Italian. “I am very confident.”

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Sarri was less certain about the future of Thibaut Courtois, who will return for pre-season along with his international team-mate Eden Hazard this weekend. Courtois has also been linked with a move to Real Madrid and is entering the final year of his contract.

“I don’t know,” said Sarri when asked if the player would stay. “At the moment Courtois is the goalkeeper of the club but I don’t know in the  future. It depends on the club, and especially on him I think. I hope that Courtois will be our goalkeeper.”

“Willian will not be considered for selection for Sunday’s Community Shield meeting with Manchester City while Cesc Fabregas has been ruled out with a knee problem. Cesc has not got a serious injury,” said Sarri. “I don’t know if he will be able to play on Sunday but it’s not serious.”