Antonio Conte has confirmed he intends to take a break after two successful seasons at Napoli, though he remains open to future opportunities including a potential return to the Italy national team. The 57-year-old manager departed the Partenopei after guiding the club to a Scudetto in his debut campaign and a second-place finish during a difficult injury crisis, leaving a year remaining on his contract.
“I am relaxed, having two splendid years at Napoli filled me with great joy and satisfaction, giving me so much on a human level,” “Napoli gave me so very much. Now I am enjoying my vacation and time with my family. I am someone who uses up a lot of energy when working, so I realise that at times I need to rest and recuperate. “I’m very pleased with how my two years at Napoli went, now I can rest and watch some football awaiting possible situations and developments during the year.”
Conte is among the candidates to replace Luciano Spalletti at the helm of the Azzurri, a role he previously occupied from 2014 to 2016, alongside Andrea Pirlo and Roberto Mancini. However, his reported high wage demands are considered a significant obstacle to such a move.
Currently in Argentina, Conte is enjoying the Copa America final between Spain and Argentina, which kicks off at 21:00 CEST. When asked if the tournament had surprised him, the former Juventus boss offered his analysis of the semi-finalists.
— Has the tournament surprised you?
“The four teams that arrived in the semi-final are the sides I expected,” replied Conte. “Spain are perhaps the closest to being like a club side. Lionel Scaloni surprised me, as the Argentina coach helped create an empathic bond with his players. The team plays for its people, and I think Scaloni is enjoying that. “Luis de la Fuente looks relaxed and calm. Perhaps Argentina are feeling the pressure a bit more than Spain tonight.”
- 🏟 Napoli (2024–2026)
- 🏟 Tottenham (2021–2023)
- 🏟 Inter (2019–2021)