Topics: Antonio Conte, Tottenham Hotspur
Antonio Conte has broken his silence for the first time since leaving the Tottenham managerial post.
The relationship between Spurs and the Italian had been fractured over the past few months as speculation persisted that he would be relieved of his duties.
The club confirmed the news earlier this week saying it was a ‘mutual agreement’ between the board and the former Juventus manager.
It came after the 53-year-old ripped into the board and his players on Saturday 18 March following their 3-3 draw with Southampton.
His decision to publicly criticise the club in a press conference was met with fury. In fact, reports emerged suggesting a 'few players' wanted him to be sacked ahead of their next Premier League game against Everton on April 3.
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Conte has now spoken out for the first time since ending his tenure as manager of the North London club.
While the message was classy as he thanked the Tottenham fans, it also came with a sly dig aimed at the club and presumably some of the players.
He wrote on Instagram: “Football is passion. I would like to deeply thank everyone at SPURS who appreciated and shared my passion and my intense way of living football as a coach.
“A special thought to the Fans who always showed me support and appreciation, it’s been unforgettable to hear them singing my name.
“Our journey together has ended, I wish you all the best for the future.”
A touch of class from the former Chelsea man, but there was undeniably a bit of saltiness expressed in there as he thanked those who ‘shared’ his passion for football.
Conte had often voiced his disapproval of the manner in which the club was run and as an extension the lack of a winning culture at the club.
His grievances came to a head after last week’s game at St Mary’s as he went on his now infamous rant.
Cristian Stellini, Conte's right-hand man, is to serve as acting head coach until the end of the campaign. The 48-year-old had been carrying out the role as he recovered from gallbladder surgery.
Former midfielder Ryan Mason will be Stellini's assistant and Spurs will look to name a permanent replacement at the end of the season.
Spurs currently occupy fourth spot in the Premier League but are just two points clear of Newcastle, who have two games in hand.
They were knocked out of the Champions League at the round of 16 following a drab 1-0 aggregate loss to AC Milan.
Conte finishes his Spurs stint with a 54 per cent win ratio, emerging victorious in 41 of the 76 games he was in charge of.
