Maurizio Sarri has conceded that Chelsea have a lot of work to do before they can think about closing the gap on Manchester City.

The Blues boss lost his first major game in charge at the club as the FA Cup winners were beaten 2-0 by the Premier League champions at Wembley Stadium.

Chelsea were outplayed for much of the encounter, and Sarri admits that his side have a lot of ground to make up before they can be considered direct rivals.

"In this moment there is a little difference - maybe not little - between us and City," the Italian told Sky Sports News.

"In the first half not too bad. In the second half there was a big difference from the physical point of view, I think.

"We need to work. Our pre-season until now has been a bit crazy, I think, so we have to work."

Chelsea begin their Premier League campaign next Saturday with a trip to Huddersfield Town.