It is quite unusual to see players recover from a deep shrinkage in their form and make top grades in a few months, playing in the same league and for the same team. But a manager change can be helpful, in fact, extremely helpful as is the case of David Luiz.
The Brazil star has looked a new signing for Chelsea this season, despite playing some bad games – like his part in the 6-0 loss to Manchester City and the 4-0 defeat to Bournemouth – he has fizzed in Maurizio Sarri’s backline with menace. Under Antonio Conte last season, Luiz was ostracized from the starting line ups and replaced by the burgeoning Andreas Christensen. The young Dane started consistently alongside Gary Cahill or Antonio Rudiger.
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Luiz was almost consigned to oblivion. But his turnaround has been remarkable. He has won favor from Maurizio Sarri and is now back to being one the most vocal on the pitch at Stamford Bridge.
The center back, who missed his penalty at Wembley in the shootout defeat gloated in his new found form after the game while revealing he is a ‘happy’ person now.
“If you look at my numbers this season, it’s another thing to show them, especially the physical numbers this season, this season my numbers are amazing, especially physically. They are better than when I was 28. My speed the other day was 34km/h. My best in life was 35/36, so now it is good. Mbappe is 38, but I cannot fly! I think it’s over 50m.
I think it’s one of the best seasons I’ve had individually but, for me, this doesn’t count because I want my team to win and it’s better that my team wins 5-4 and it’s better that everyone talks bad about me but my team is winning than I’m doing great job and we’re still not winning! Personally, especially after last season which was so difficult for me because for six months I was not playing football, playing every match now and playing very well and I’m very happy now.â€
David Luiz, Independent
