Antonio Conte releases statement on replacing Michael Carrick at Manchester United
Antonio Conte says he is not in advanced negotiations with any club amid speculation that he could replace Michael Carrick as Manchester United manager - but the Italian has not definitively denied interest in taking charge at Old Trafford.
Conte has been one of numerous managers reported as potential replacements for Carrick if Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS, who head United's football department, decide to dispense with the current head coach's services.
Carrick is under growing pressure after Wednesday's 4-1 defeat to Como in the Champions League, with reports in Italy claiming that Conte had met United chiefs following that game. The Italian has now issued a response to those reports.
Antonio Conte statement on Man Utd job
"My name has been linked with numerous clubs, but there are currently no negotiations at an advanced stage," Conte has said, in a statement posted to his official Instagram account.
"Following a wonderful and successful spell in charge of Napoli, I will take the time I need to consider how and when to return to management. It will be a carefully considered decision, one I will make when I believe the conditions are right.
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"I have read reports of financial demands and requests for full control that I have supposedly already made to the clubs mentioned, as well as reservations about what has been described as my 'strong personality'. These reports are unfounded, as there is currently no concrete basis for such assessments.
"Should a concrete opportunity arise, that will be the time to hold discussions with the club concerned and jointly consider the terms of a potential agreement, with due regard for both parties' needs and the qualities and approach that define my work as a manager.
"Until then, any assumptions about my demands and my professional future remain speculation and cannot be treated as fact."
Man Utd next manager: Who is the current favourite?
As of the time of publishing, Eddie Howe remains the clear favourite to become the next Manchester United head coach if Michael Carrick parts ways with the club.
Howe is odds-on favourite to take over at Old Trafford among several bookmakers listed on Oddschecker, with Julian Nagelsmann (5/1) and Fabian Hurzeler (10/1) next on the list. Conte is level with Hurzeler at a best price of 10/1.
Hurzeler's lengthening odds in recent days are seemingly a reflection of the Brighton manager not wanting the United job. It was reported by Ben Jacobs on Thursday that the German had no interest in the role, and he told reporters on Friday: "I'm fully focused on my job here. I've got no time to think about these rumours because we play every three days.
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"I have a lot of respect for Michael Carrick and the job he has done at Manchester United the last season. He's a great human being, a great personality, and I really respect him.
"I'm really privileged to be here. I'm part of a journey, and I still have this feeling when I go to bed that we are not finished with our journey."
Topics: Antonio Conte, Man Utd, Michael Carrick
Ryan Smart