Antonio Conte breaks silence after Chelsea sacking with no hard feelings towards Blues

Antonio Conte was magnanimous about his time at Chelsea and made no reference to any ill-feeling in a statement issued by the League Managers Association following his sacking.

The 48-year-old Italian was axed last Friday, 55 days after lifting the FA Cup in his final match in charge, with Maurizio Sarri appointed his successor 24 hours later.

“I would like to thank all of my friends at Chelsea Football Club for their hard work and support over the past two seasons which enabled us to win the Premier League and FA Cup together,” Conte said in the LMA statement issued on Monday.

Conte won the 2016-17 Premier League title with Chelsea in his first season as head coach and signed an improved contract, but not an extension to the deal which was due to expire in June 2019.

The former Juventus and Italy boss often hinted at grievances with the Chelsea hierarchy, particularly over transfer policy, and was discarded with a year remaining on his contract and despite overseeing the start of pre-season training for the 2018-19 campaign.

Conte thanked his players, staff and the Blues fans, adding: “It was fantastic for me to be able to share my emotions, passion and enthusiasm throughout two unforgettable seasons with these amazing Chelsea supporters, who will always stay in my heart.

“I hope Chelsea will continue to be successful and I wish everyone well for next season.

“I have made many memories during my time with Chelsea, which I will take with me into my next challenge.”