Antonio Conte has clarified his stance regarding a possible return to manage the Italian national team. He emphasized that he has “another year on my contract with Napoli.”
The coach was considered a leading candidate to take over the Azzurri after Gennaro Gattuso’s resignation, which followed Italy’s failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
Previously, Conte had indicated that he would consider himself for the role of the new Azzurri boss if he were in the position of the Federation President. However, he expressed frustration today when his remarks were interpreted as him offering his availability to the FIGC.
Conte Open to Italy, but Also to Napoli
“I did not say I was available for anything,” Conte asserted on Rai Radio 1. “I have another year left on my contract with Napoli, and at the end of the season, I will discuss matters with the President. I implore you to interpret my words correctly, because if they are going to be twisted, I will cease speaking altogether.”
The 56-year-old previously managed the Italian national team from 2014 to 2016, during which he secured 14 victories, six draws, and five defeats. He departed after Italy’s quarter-final elimination by Germany on penalties at EURO 2016 to return to club management with Chelsea. Since then, he has also coached Inter Milan, Tottenham, and has been with Napoli since 2024.
