Italy CT Antonio Conte assures he won’t resign before Euro 2016, but wants more co-operation from clubs.
The Azzurri Coach cancelled a planned meet-up of the squad this month after it was hinted that several clubs would not release their players.
That led to speculation that the former Juventus boss could even quit before the European Championships in 2016, but Conte insists he’ll stay until at least then.
Italy CT Antonio Conte assures he won’t resign before Euro 2016, but wants more co-operation from clubs.
The Azzurri Coach cancelled a planned meet-up of the squad this month after it was hinted that several clubs would not release their players.
That led to speculation that the former Juventus boss could even quit before the European Championships in 2016, but Conte insists he’ll stay until at least then.
“I’ll stay in my post until the European Championships in 2016,” the 45-year-old told La Repubblica.
“That’s never been an option, I think I’m a very responsible person, especially in difficult times, and this is one of those times.
“I made an important commitment, pushed the the enthusiasm of the President of the federation [Carlo Tavecchio] to turn things around and I intend to respect that.
“I expect greater co-operation from the clubs. To bridge the gap to other nations, I must be able to work as a Coach, not just as a selector.
“Otherwise you could have had anyone else in my place, someone even less expensive.
“Since July I’ve worked with the whole system: Serie A clubs, Serie B, amateurs and youth teams. I even coached with the Under-15s. All this will pay off I’m sure.
“Many countries in Europe now lie ahead of us, if the League was always sending teams to the Champions League final I’d be happy, but that’s not the reality, and maybe we haven’t hit the bottom yet.
“For the Euros, the schedule of the season is essential. I don’t care when they start the season, or if they play at Christmas, but sufficient time to prepare for the Euros should definitely be a priority.”
Conte also discussed his ambition for Italy at the tournament, and admits that Italy are a step behind the likes of Spain and Germany.
“Right now we are in the second or third category.
“We mustn’t give up on our ambitions, but nor can we put our heads in the sand and forget the difficulties we find ourselves in.
“It’s easy to make declarations.”