Zola not returning to Chelsea, says agent

THE agent for Gianfranco Zola and Cagliari club president have both dismissed speculation that the impish Italian is on his way back to Chelsea.

Reports indicate that Zola has been offered a lucrative deal to return to Stamford Bridge.

His initial role would see him resume his playing career with the London club, but the reports indicated he would become involved on the Chelsea coaching side as well.

The gifted former Parma star was voted Chelsea’s best-ever player during a hugely successful stint in West London and only rejected the chance to stay at the club because he had already given his word to Cagliari before Roman Abramovich’s takeover.

“Sincerely, we have never received any communication from Chelsea,” his agent Flavio Marrucco said.

Cagliari president Massimo Cellino has also stressed his determination to keep the player in Sardinia.

“He’s our emblem and he will continue being it,” Cellino stated.

“If we achieve promotion to Serie A, Cagliari will try to sustain the challenge with the other sides and, to do this, we will not be selling our jewels.

“So, all the best players will stay, as will the coach.”

Cagliari are still fighting for the right to play among Italy’s elite next season.