Chelsea legend Gianfranco Zola has turned down an ambassador’s role at Stamford Bridge and will leave the club this summer. The Italian played for the club between 1996 and 2003 but he returned to west London last summer to assist Maurizio Sarri.
The duo helped the Blues win the Europa League and qualify for the Champions League but Sarri decided to leave for Juventus earlier this month. Derby County boss Frank Lampard is now in talks to replace Sarri but the club’s record goalscorer is hoping to bring his own backroom staff with him.
With Jody Morris set to be his No.2, Zola was offered an ambassadorial role but his agent Fulvio Marrucco confirms he wants to continue his coaching career. He told the Guardian: “Gianfranco’s contract with Chelsea expires at the end of the month.
“After a season of hard work and fantastic results alongside Maurizio Sarri, he is ready to take the next step in his own management career.”
