Chelsea news: Maurizio Sarri issues demand to Ross Barkley after Community Shield defeat (Image: GETTY)
Barkley’s performance was one of the few bright points for Chelsea as Pep Guardiola’s side won 2-0 with ease.
Sarri revealed post-match that he was pleased with the England international’s showing against Manchester City.
But he was happy to identify where Barkley needs to get better in order to raise his game.
"I like him," said Sarri. "He is a technical player. I like him very much. He has to improve in the defensive phase.
"It’s difficult in this moment to play with Jorginho, Cesc and Ross all together, but I like him and he will be very useful player for us."
Chelsea adopted Sarri’s favoured 4-3-3 formation for the traditional curtain-raiser at Wembley.
And the Italian suggested there was one aspect of his philosophy in particular that was evident against City.
"Some things, but not too many," said Sarri, when asked which of his methods he already sees in his players.
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Chelsea news: Maurizio Sarri issues demand to Ross Barkley after Community Shield defeat (Image: GETTY)
"We have the idea to press. Sometimes we press in the right way, and sometimes not. We have the idea to be in control of the match, but today we were not in control of the match, so I think we have to work for a long time.
"It’s not very easy. In the next week we have a friendly match again. I prefer in this moment to be on the pitch with the players training."
Chelsea round off their pre-season campaign by taking on Ligue 1 giants Lyon on Tuesday night.
They begin the Premier League season by travelling to Huddersfield next Saturday.
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