Italy CT Antonio Conte insists he acted “correctly from all points of view” in announcing his departure.
The Azzurri Coach will step down after this summer’s European Championships, and appears all-but certain to take over at English Premier League side Chelsea.
The decision to announce his departure has drawn criticism in some quarters, but the former Juventus boss believes he has done the right thing.
Italy CT Antonio Conte insists he acted “correctly from all points of view” in announcing his departure.
The Azzurri Coach will step down after this summer’s European Championships, and appears all-but certain to take over at English Premier League side Chelsea.
The decision to announce his departure has drawn criticism in some quarters, but the former Juventus boss believes he has done the right thing.
“I was quite rightly and correctly from all points of view asked to clarify my position before the Euros, as the contract would have expired automatically,” Conte explained today at a Press conference at Coverciano.
“I thought well and pondered the decision, and the moment I was 100 per cent certain of what I felt inside I informed the [FIGC] President [Carlo Tavecchio], the person who wanted me here and chose me.
“I informed him of my decision in a calm manner, talking a bit about the fact I had decided this way.”
Despite numerous questions, Conte was unwilling to officially confirm he’ll be moving to Stamford Bridge this summer.
“I haven’t told Tavecchio, all he had to know is that I’m leaving. I was conflicted, because it’s difficult to leave a group which is working so well.
“I listened to my heart, like I did when I said yes to the national team.
“England? Nothing seduces me at the moment, I’m still the CT of the national team. It’s an experience which has completed me, which taught me to use the limited time available and maintain relationships with little time.
“It was definitely a fantastic and extraordinary experience, I’ve always envied Coaches who represented Italy.
“Now it’s my turn, and I’m happy. We’ll try to work as usual.”