Antonio Conte is putting the record straight. The 57-year-old Italian manager, who left Napoli in June 2026 after winning the Serie A title and the Italian Super Cup during his two-year spell, has come out to dismiss swirling reports about his next move in football.
Conte confirmed he is not currently in advanced negotiations with any club, and he pushed back on claims about outlandish demands or requests for full control, calling those reports unfounded. He made clear that he is taking his time and will only engage seriously when the right conditions are in place.
Reports have linked him with Manchester United, where uncertainty around Michael Carrick's position has opened the door to speculation, while Juventus has also been named as a possible destination. Conte has not confirmed any agreement with either club or anyone else.
What he has made clear is the kind of project he is looking for. He wants a club with genuine ambition, a clear vision, and a real desire to compete for major trophies. More than that, he wants to help a club rediscover its winning mentality, not just show up and participate.
He did leave one door open, saying he would consider stepping into a role mid-season if the right opportunity came along. So the question is not whether Conte will return. It is who will meet his standard first.
Originally published by NotJustOk.