Antonio Conte has spoken out for the first time since he was sacked as Tottenham manager. The Italian boss and Spurs came to a mutual agreement to end his reign as head coach after 16 months in charge at the club.
The Italian's exit from Tottenham Hotspur Stadium comes over a week after his explosive post-match press conference outburst following the 3-3 draw at Southampton. Club chairman Daniel Levy said in a statement: "We have 10 Premier League games remaining and we have a fight on our hands for a Champions League place.
"We all need to pull together. Everyone has to step up to ensure the highest possible finish for our club and amazing, loyal supporters"
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Conte sent a message to Spurs fans on social media thanking those who 'appreciated and shared' his passion for football. The Italian wrote in a post on Instagram: "Football is passion.
"I would like to deeply thank everyone at Spurs who appreciated and shared my passion and my intense way of living football as a coach. A special thought to the Fans who always showed me support and appreciation, it’s been unforgettable to hear them singing my name.
"Our journey together has ended, I wish you all the best for the future - Antonio."
Conte's assistant, Cristian Stellini, is set to take charge alongside Ryan Mason until the end of the current campaign. Stellini will oversee ten games in the top flight, with the aim of getting Spurs back into the Champions League for next season.
Stellini was something of a surprise choice as interim head coach, given his connection with Conte. Many had expected Mason to take over until the end of the year.
Following his departure from Bayern Munich last week, Julian Nagelsmann has emerged as a potential successor to Conte. Mauricio Pochettino has also been linked with a surprise return to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, but a decision on the next permanent manager could take some time.
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