I’m Not Returning to Coaching Now – Conte

Antonio Conte has insisted he is in no rush to return to coaching after Real Madrid confirmed to the Spanish Football Association that Santiago Solari will remain in charge of the team for at least the rest of the season.

Chelsea and Conte remain locked in a legal dispute relating to his acrimonious departure from the club in July, with the Italian maintaining he should be paid in full for the final year of his contract at Stamford Bridge and the club claiming his behaviour contributed to his own sacking.

According to reports, Madrid considered appointing Conte as successor to the sacked Julen Lopetegui last month, but turned their attentions elsewhere amid concerns he would demand too much power and antagonise a powerful dressing room with his uncompromising style of management.

Speaking to Sky Italy, Conte hinted he did not feel Madrid was a good fit and confirmed he wants to choose his next club carefully.

“Hopping on a moving train is not good for top coaches and right now, I don’t feel the need to return immediately,” Conte said. “Maybe I’ll change my mind in two or three months — never say never — but today I’m really convinced that it’s best to wait for a project all of my own.”