Antonio Conte’s Italy were agonisingly knocked out of Euro 2016 last week by a penalty shoot-out at the hands of the Germans. The manager has already been lined up as the next Blues manager, and this summer’s tournament has given fans a lot to look forward to. The Italian admits he hoped his stay with Italy would extend beyond Euro 2016, but is glad he has the role of Chelsea manager, and looks forward to getting started.

Conte’s Italian side impressed the footballing world this summer after a huge togetherness and organisational structure gave them a beautiful style of play to watch. The passion from the coach and the players was there for everyone to see, and wins against Spain and Belgium proved that the side were not to be undermined.

Speaking after Italy’s defeat against Germany, Conte said: “The decision to leave the national team after two years was taken early and I don’t deny there were moments when I’d have liked to have the opportunity to continue. But, because of certain developments, I wasn’t able to go back on that.”

“In November I thought I was continuing with the national side,” he added. “Then I told the president of the Italian football federation of the great opportunity to join Chelsea Football Club.”

“I wanted to return to the cut and thrust of club football. Now, I have the opportunity to start this exciting adventure.”

When asked if he would ever manage Italy again, Conte said he thought it would be impossible, and committed himself to Chelsea.

“I think it’s impossible,” he said. “My future lies in working at club level, my future’s with Chelsea.”

“Now I’ll take seven days off to charge my batteries and shift a bit of this disappointment before taking over at Chelsea. I know it will be a difficult challenge but it’s one I will cherish.”

[Quotes via Sky Sports]

We look foward to seeing how well Conte performs at Chelsea. If Italy’s Euro campaign is anything to go by, we’re in for a treat!