Antonio Conte, the renowned Italian tactician, appeared to subtly criticize Tottenham's owner, Daniel Levy, following his departure from the club before the conclusion of last season. Conte left Tottenham in March after an impassioned outburst about the club, which proved to be the final straw. The team squandered a 3-1 lead against Southampton, with Conte branding his players "unacceptable" and "selfish." He expressed his belief that there was a toxic culture within the club that urgently needed to be changed. Conte's press conference at the time suggested that Levy should shoulder some of the blame for Tottenham's lack of success, considering the high turnover of managers.
Since leaving Tottenham, Conte has kept relatively quiet about his time at the club. However, during an awards ceremony in Arezzo on June 13, he made a comment that has been interpreted as a veiled jab at Tottenham. Conte stated that "some had decided to settle for less" while emphasizing that he has not lost his passion. He acknowledged that his last experience, like others in his career, had both positive and negative aspects. Conte highlighted the progress made at Tottenham, leading them to qualify for the Champions League despite their initial low position in the league. However, he chose to part ways with the club when they were in fourth position, implying that some individuals within the club had accepted mediocrity.
Conte expressed his ongoing desire to coach and emphasized that his passion for the profession remains unwavering. He mentioned that if a significant and motivating opportunity were to arise, he would consider it, whether in Italy or abroad. Since leaving Tottenham, Conte has been linked with various coaching positions across Europe, including a potential return to Juventus or a move to French champions Paris Saint-Germain.
Antonio Conte at a Tottenham match. Source: Getty
Antonio Conte giving match advice to Richarlison. Source: Getty