Willian has hinted at strained relations with Antonio Conte by posting a photo to Instagram in which he blocks out his manager from Chelsea’s FA Cup celebrations.
The Brazilian winger only came on as a 90th minute substitute in the final at Wembley as Chelsea beat Manchester United 1-0 to end a disappointing season - they finished fifth in their Premier League title defence to miss out on next year's Champions League - on a high.
Willian took a picture of the entire Chelsea team celebrating with their newly-won silverware and blocked out Conte’s figure with three gold trophy emojis.
The doctored picture suggests a rift with Conte, who could soon be on his way out of Stamford Bridge.
The Italian, having led Chelsea to the title last season, has cut an increasingly frustrated figure this season as his team failed to shine in the Premier League.
While Chelsea have been linked with a number of managerial replacements - Napoli boss Maurizio Sarri is the frontrunner - winning the FA Cup could persuade all parties he should remain at the club.
That might be worrying news for Chelsea fans if Willian - one of their best and most consistent performers this season - has a poor relationship with Conte.
He is a long-term transfer target for Manchester United, managed by his former Blues boss Jose Mourinho, who is a long term admirer of the Brazil international.
Willian previously suggested problems with Conte in an interview with ESPN Brazil. Asked how happy he is with his boss, Willian said: 'Oh boy! Do you really want me to tell you?'
Both Willian and the interviewer laughed, before adding: 'Well, let's save it for the next interview.'
CHUKSDEMC
84
i think the media are blowing this out of proportion, they are the one creating this rift, that picture doesn't really signify that there's a rift btw the coach and the player. this is too much, why always Chelsea and I know our board and some of our fans will believe this propaganda. #ConteMustStay
Balcombe
72
Guys he’s saying that Conte is made of gold! All he does is win!
raheem_CFC
63
If if that the case Willian is being being very wicked and biased.. conte has trusted in him a lot this season, he got to play in all UCL games, and a lot of other domestic cups and league games, and the one match he came on late it would cause a rift?? it's a team effort and from the team wins what does it matter?
exampleen
53
I love Willian but this is just childish. I can understand him being upset since Conte seems lo like Pedro over him but I would never have expected this from him. Sell him off to Man U and get Martial and Mata maybe? I loved Mata Oscar and Hazard playing together and Martial could easily upgrade from Oscar in that trio.
viwiko
28
media people! always creating problems between players and coaches! why didn't he block him with any other image? why Golden Trophy? the Image simply implies a golden coach.