With speculation continuing about the whereabouts of Antonio Conte after this season, the Italian was interviewed by his own national media following the 1-1 draw with Barcelona last night.
He asked directly about his future and answered in the same fashion. The Telegraph carry the details of what was said. Conte is obviously fully aware of Roman Abramovich`s modus operandi as a football club owner.
`In 14 years, Chelsea have changed coach 10 times, so they do have a tendency to chop and change here.
He`s definitely called that. He`s nailed those in the media as well.
`The media also plays on this habit the moment there are negative results. They were already writing headlines about my dismissal after the opening game against Burnley.
That too is true. That initial defeat set in motion a narrative that has become all too familiar at Chelsea in recent years. Success follows failure that follows success. It`s a cycle that repeats. Despite that constant talk of being fired the Italian is not bothered by it.
`It`s no problem for me, in fact I really like pressure. I just hope it doesn`t affect the players.`
He may think that, but recent games have reflected a man feeling the heat. Having enjoyed his passion and occasional crowd surfing last season, it`s been sad to see him less enthused this term. In the big game last night, though, some of that vigour was there.
Conte has already said he`d like to see his contract through to its conclusion in the summer of 2019. Most Chelsea fans would. He reiterated it in the interview though.
`I said very clearly, I have a contract to 2019. I want to respect it but anything can happen in football. I`m happy here but to move forward with the marriage everyone needs to be in agreement. My intention is to continue.
In there, is a subtle hint that all is not well behind the scenes. ‘Everyone needs to be in agreement`, is the key sentence there, and the one that may mark his time at the club.
He won`t be particularly fussed if Roman hits the eject button though, they`ll be plenty of offers on the table and he`s all ready.
`In our line of work, we always have a bag packed. My intention is to remain here, but if something were to change, there would be several different scenarios opening up.
There you have it. The manager has spoken. Draw your own conclusions.
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