The Chelsea legend has backed Lampard to succeed the Italian if the Blues part ways with the the current boss
Didier Drogba has championed Frank Lampard to take over at Stamford Bridge if Maurizio Sarri leaves the club.
Former Blues striker Drogba – who spent nine years at Stamford Bridge – believes it's not too early for the iconic Blues midfielder to take the reins.
Current boss Sarri is expected to leave the club this summer to take over at Juventus, and if that happens, Lampard will be among the favourites to be named as his successor.
When asked about the prospect of Lampard taking charge, Drogba said: "Every summer is big. I think he is a very good option for the club.
"He’s done well with Derby, taking the team to the play-off final and I think it’s a very good option for the club."
Lampard has just one season of managerial experience under his belt, but 41-year-old Drogba rejected the idea that the Derby boss isn't ready to step up.
"He’s never going to be ready then? Does he have to wait until he’s 40 or 50 to be ready? No.
"I think it depends on experiences, it depends on your desire to succeed and do it if he feels ready. It’s not too early."
Drogba was speaking at Stamford Bridge during a training session for Soccer Aid 2019 which will be held at the west London ground.
He scored 164 goals in 341 games for the Blues across an eight-year stretch and a season-long comeback.
"I’m very happy to be here, back in the stadium where I’ve scored so many goals, celebrated so many titles," he said.
"It’s always good to be here, and Sunday is for a good reason, a good cause in Soccer Aid and I’m really glad to be part of this team and contribute.
"I will always follow [Chelsea]. I spent nine years here so I will always follow the results and how the club is going."
When asked whether Drogba himself harbours dreams of sitting in the managerial hot-seat at Stamford Bridge, a grin spread across his face, but he wouldn't comment on what the future holds.
Soccer Aid for Unicef will be broadcast live on ITV on Sunday 16th June, starting at 6.30pm.
To donate to Unicef, visit socceraid.org.uk
Michael Potts is the Sport Editor for Radio Times, covering all of the biggest sporting events across the globe with previews, features, interviews and more. He has worked for Radio Times since 2019 and previously worked on the sport desk at Express.co.uk after starting his career writing features for What Culture. He achieved a first-class degree in Sports Journalism in 2014.
with Bradford City of Culture 2025. One Radio Times reader will win a wonderful trip for four to see The Railway Children. As well as tickets to the show, you will enjoy an overnight stay in a Suite at the four-star Cedar Court Hotel Bradford
With our top four equity release facts you will have a better idea of what’s really on offer and whether it could be right for you.
By entering your details, you are agreeing to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. You can unsubscribe at any time.