Sarri: Cahill doesn't suit Chelsea's playing style

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri suggested Gary Cahill is free to leave the club after explaining the English international doesn't possess the technical qualities required to be considered for regular selection.

The 32-year-old has seen a significant reduction in opportunities under the Italian manager, making just one substitute appearance in Chelsea's 16 Premier League matches this season, He appeared in 27 league games last term.

After Cahill was excluded from Chelsea's 19-man squad ahead of their final Europa League group stage encounter on Thursday, Sarri made it clear that the center-back doesn't suit his playing style.

"I respect him very much because he has won everything with this club, but then I have to do my job," Sarri told reporters, according to Liam Twomey of ESPN FC.

"Every match I have to choose. For me, it is not (possible) to have him on the bench. Maybe he is the best (of our defenders) in the box, but our defenders may play 100 or 110 balls in a match so I need defenders (to play) very technically.

"It is not my decision, it is up to him and the club (whether he stays). He is in the last year of the contract, he has to decide for a new contract here or another club.

"For the (players) over 30 the club usually offers only one year of contract. If he has an offer of three years (somewhere else) he can, of course, choose something. It doesn't depend if I am sentimental or not."

Cahill conceded in September that he will "probably" leave Chelsea when the January transfer window opens. A report Wednesday suggested Arsenal could target him, along with Manchester United outcast Eric Bailly, next month, but a move to north London may be difficult as Chelsea are believed to be reluctant to sell or loan Cahill to a Premier League rival.

Since joining Chelsea from Bolton Wanderers in 2012 for what was widely considered bargain fee of £7 million, Cahill helped the team win two Premier League titles, the Champions League, Europa League, and the FA Cup.