Conte clarifies Chelsea future following quit talk

Michael Graham

Antonio Conte has addressed speculation that he will quit Chelsea, suggesting he would like to be in charge at the club when they move into the new Stamford Bridge.

The 48-year-old led Chelsea to the Premier League title in his first season in charge last term.

He signed improved terms to the initial three-year deal he agreed on taking up the job, but not an extension. His contract still expires in June 2019.

Conte insists he is committed to Chelsea, who have planning permission to rebuild Stamford Bridge but are yet to make a final decision whether to proceed.

If the Italian were to still be in charge it would defy Chelsea’s managerial turnover, which pre-dates Roman Abramovich’s 14-year ownership. Not since John Neal in 1981 to 1985 has a Blues boss enjoyed four calendar years in charge.

“I want to break this bad record. I must be positive,” Conte said.

“When you start a job with a new club, I hope to stay in this club for many years.

“This could be a fantastic challenge for me and also for the club, to stay together and also to play with this team in a new stadium.

“Honestly, the new stadium will be great, but I love a lot Stamford Bridge, also to play in the stadium. I feel Stamford Bridge is like my house.”