ANTONIO CONTE has taken a thinly-veiled swipe at former club Tottenham.
The Italian has been out of a job since leaving the North London side last season.
However, following reports he could soon take over at Napoli, Conte appeared to take a dig at his old club while simultaneously talking about his achievements with Juventus and Chelsea.
Speaking at a Gazzetta dello Sport event, he said: “One day I would like to train a team that has recently won, because for example I took Chelsea coming off seventh place, Juve were seventh too.”
He also hinted at his return to management with a warning to rivals.
Conte continued: “Now I have unplugged to spend more time with my family and for myself. I continue studying, seeing what changes there are in the sport and understand new situations.
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“When I do return, I will be even more ready to handle the top challenges.”
Directly addressing rumours about him taking over in Naples, he added: “I know that some stories emerged, but now I feel the need to dedicate time to myself and my daughter, who is growing up.
“After Tottenham, I promised to dedicate time to family, it’s a lifestyle choice.
“After that, I will be ready to get back to the battle. And when I do, it will be tough for everyone else.”
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Conte, 54, managed Spurs between November 2021 and March of this year.
After his arrival, the club managed to claw its way into the top four following a poor start to the season.
However, things unravelled in his second season, with Spurs failing to qualify for any European football.
Under new boss Ange Postecoglou they sit top of the league following an unbeaten start.
Spurs host Fulham when club football resumes next weekend.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
