Drogba convinced by Scolari

Chelsea striker likens manager to Mourinho

Last updated: 28th September 2008

Drogba convinced by Scolari

Drogba: Praise for Scolari

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Didier Drogba has revealed that it was Luiz Felipe Scolari who convinced him to stay at Chelsea over the summer.

Drogba was upset after the departure of Jose Mourinho early last season and speculation suggested he could leave Stamford Bridge during the transfer window.

A number of Europe's top clubs were linked with Drogba but he decided not to move on after speaking with new boss Scolari, who took charge at the end of Euro 2008.

Having worked with the Brazilian for nearly three months now, Drogba is happy that he made the right choice and has likened Scolari to Mourinho.

"Scolari is one of those coaches who is very close to the players. His style is similar to Mourinho's," Drogba told The People.

"I like this type of coach. I feel much more comfortable with this style of management.

"I spoke with him and he showed he wanted me to stay and that is what finally convinced me.

"I have had a lot to think about throughout this summer. It is true that it was 50/50 as to whether I would stay but I still think I have something to prove."

Unfinished business

Drogba is determined to help Chelsea make amends for last season's defeat to Manchester United in the final of the UEFA Champions League.

The Blues lost out on penalties in Moscow but Drogba believes they can go one step further in the competition under Scolari.

"Europe has become the unfinished business of my career," he explained.

"The game against Manchester United in Moscow is still a painful memory for the players.

"We had the cup so close but we have to forget and concentrate on reaching the final again this season.

"Chelsea were better than United in Moscow and we should never have got to penalties. We were on top in extra time and we should have finished the job.

"The team has another air about it at the moment. Scolari has connected well with the squad and that is the key for things to work well.

"The atmosphere is different to that under Avram Grant."