Express. Home of the Daily and Sunday Express.
Christian Pulisic: ‘I didn’t know anything about it' - Maurizio Sarri makes transfer claim
MAURIZIO SARRI has revealed he had no idea about Christian Pulisic’s move to Chelsea.
Pulisic joined the west London club from Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday for a fee of £58million.
The USA international won’t join his Chelsea team-mates this month, though, as he’s been loaned back to the Bundesliga side for the rest of the season.
Pulisic’s arrival has strengthened the Blues’ options on the wings and he’ll likely be the long-term replacement for 30-year-old Willian.
Chelsea chief Sarri is happy with the signing of the 20-year-old but admits he played a very small role in his arrival at Stamford Bridge.
“I didn’t know anything about [signing] Pulisic yesterday," Sarri said after Chelsea’s 0-0 draw with Southampton.
"They asked my opinion about him one month ago.
“My opinion was positive and today I knew that the deal is done but I didn’t know anything."
The Italian admitted he doesn’t have a say in the club’s transfer dealings, adding: “I am not in charge of the market so I have to tend to my matches and play every three days. I can only say my opinion to the club.”
I didn’t know anything about [signing] Pulisic yesterday
Pulisic joined Dortmund at the age of 16 from American side PA Classics.
The Pennsylvania native is looking forward to the next chapter of his career and playing in England’s top division.
“In summer I move on to Chelsea and to a new competition, the English Premier League,” he said.
“It’s a privilege to have signed for such a legendary club and I look forward to working hard towards being a contributor to their team of world-class players.
“Looking forward to working with Maurizio Sarri and his technical team.
"But for the next six months, it’s all BVB! Please do not doubt my passion, determination and my 110% commitment to the team right until the last ball is kicked this season.
“We all feel that this is ‘our year’ and we are determined to achieve the best possible results in all competitions.”
Chelsea will next be in action on Saturday, welcoming Championship side Nottingham Forest to Stamford Bridge in a FA Cup third-round clash.
Sarri's troops will then to Wembley on Tuesday to take on second-placed Tottenham.