Willian has hinted at strained relations with Antonio Conte by posting a photo to Instagram in which he blocks out his manager from Chelsea’s FA Cup celebrations.
The Brazilian winger only came on as a 90th minute substitute in the final at Wembley as Chelsea beat Manchester United 1-0 to add a silver lining to their disappointing season, having finished fifth in the Premier League and missed out on next year’s Champions League.
Willian altered a picture of the entire Chelsea team celebrating with their newly-won silverware and blocked out Conte’s figure with three gold trophy emojis.
The doctored picture suggests a rift with Conte, who could soon be on his way out of Stamford Bridge.
The Italian, having led Chelsea to the title last season, has cut an increasingly frustrated figure as his team failed to shine in the Premier League.
While Chelsea have been linked with a number of managerial replacements – Napoli boss Maurizio Sarri is the frontrunner – winning the FA Cup could persuade all parties he should remain at the club.
That might be worrying news for Chelsea fans if Willian – one of their best performers this season – relationship with Conte cannot be mended.
He is a long-term transfer target for Manchester United, managed by his former Blues boss Jose Mourinho, who is a long term admirer of the Brazil international.
Willian previously suggested problems with Conte in an interview with ESPN Brazil. Asked how happy he is with his boss, Willian said: ‘Oh boy! Do you really want me to tell you?’
Both Willian and the interviewer laughed, before adding: ‘Well, let’s save it for the next interview.’
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