Antonio Conte wishes Chelsea success under Maurizio Sarri despite controversial departure from Stamford Bridge

Antonio Conte wishes Chelsea success under Maurizio Sarri despite controversial departure from Stamford Bridge

Antonio Conte says he hopes Chelsea “continue to be successful” under new manager Maurizio Sarri. 

Conte was sacked from his role as manager at Stamford Bridge late last week and quickly replaced by Sarri – who himself was sacked from Napoli at the end of last season.

Conte was shown the door after a difficult season at The Bridge, where despite winning the FA Cup, the Blues finished fifth in the Premier League, again missing out on Champions League football for the second time in three seasons.

The Italian also publicly spoke of grievances with the London club’s hierarchy, particularly over Roman Abramovich’s transfer policy – where Conte believed he was not being given the right help financially to bring in the best players.

Despite his difficulties last term however, it appears Conte bares no hard feelings for his former club.

“I would like to thank all of my friends at Chelsea Football Club for their hard work and support over the past two seasons which enabled us to win the Premier League and FA Cup together,” Conte said in a statement released via the League Managers’ Association.

“It was fantastic for me to be able to share my emotions, passion and enthusiasm throughout two unforgettable seasons with these amazing Chelsea supporters, who will always stay in my heart.”

Maurizio Sarri arrives at Chelsea with big shoes to fill, however also with a solid reputation as one of Europe’s most revered coaches.

While he is yet to win a major honour as a coach in almost 13 years, the 59-year-old has received plenty of plaudits for the style of football his side’s play – in particular Napoli, whom gained admirers across the continent last season for their fluent, attacking football.

Conte hopes that Sarri can break his trophy duck with the Blues next term.

“I hope Chelsea will continue to be successful and I wish everyone well for next season. I have made many memories during my time with Chelsea, which I will take with me into my next challenge.”