Mistakes do not define me, says Chelsea boss Sarri
The new Blues boss faced the media for the first time on Wednesday and answered questions over a number of controversies during his coaching career in Italy.
Sarri, 59, was labelled a "racist" and accused of being a homophobe by then-Inter boss Roberto Mancini following a heated exchange in 2016.
Further criticism followed earlier this year when he insulted a female journalist, but the former Perugia and Empoli coach claims past comments are not indicative of his views.
"These were mistakes for sure. I think they do not very well define me, either as homophobic or racist," Sarri said.
"I am a very open person. I do not have these kinds of problems. I hope I will be able to show this when I am working here and living here.
"These mistakes were made, yes, and when someone makes a mistake they must apologise. To have a professional and ethical attitude is very important.
"I hope you will get to know me better and forget about this."
Make yourself at home, Maurizio! #CFCSarri pic.twitter.com/4SCvuYORGN
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) July 18, 2018
Left "heartbroken" by an acrimonious departure from Napoli, Sarri has resolved to introduce a sense of fun at Stamford Bridge, where a tense atmosphere developed under Antonio Conte last term.
The Italian hopes to do that by implementing a playing style he described as closer to Pep Guardiola's approach than that of Jose Mourinho.
"[Mourinho] was won many things repeatedly and in different clubs so I think his track record does not need any description. We are talking about a world level coach," Sarri said.
"I esteem Guardiola and also other managers. My playing style is closer to Guardiola but I really appreciate both in the same way.
"My goal is to have fun and if possible be competitive in all competitions until the very end."