Antonio Conte releases statement as rumours link him with Man United manager job

Antonio Conte has rejected claims he is in talks over a return to management amid links to Manchester United. The 57-year-old is currently without a club having left his role at Napoli in the summer after two seasons in charge. It was only earlier this month which saw the Italian refuse to rule out a return to England having managed Chelsea and Tottenham. And with Michael Carrick under increasing pressure at Old Trafford, Conte’s name has been mentioned as one possible replacement . Reports last week suggested that Conte would be open to taking the reins at the Theatre of Dreams should Carrick be relieved of his duties. Though talkSPORT understands the former Juventus star is not a leading contender for the job, with Eddie Howe believed to be the club’s preferred choice to succeed Carrick . A 4-1 defeat for United away at Como in the Champions League on Wednesday has further added to the uncertainty surrounding Carrick’s long-term future. But Conte has shut down and rumours of him joining a new team – having also been linked with a return to Juventus with the Old Lady sitting eighth in Serie A. Posting a lengthy statement on social media , Conte rejected any talk that he is negotiations to return to the dugout. What has Antonio Conte said about his future? Posting an Instagram story, Conte said: “Following recent media reports in Italy and abroad, I feel it is appropriate to clarify my position. “My name has been linked with numerous clubs, but there are currently no negotiations at an advanced stage. “Following a wonderful and successful spell in charge of Napoli, I will take the time I need to consider how and when to return to management. “It will be a carefully considered decision, one I will make when I believe the conditions are right. “I have read reports of financial demands and requests for full control that I have supposedly already made to the clubs mentioned, as well as reservations about what has been described as my ‘strong personality’. “These reports are unfounded, as there is currently no concrete basis for such assessments. “Should a concrete opportunity arise, that will be the time to hold discussions with the club concerned and jointly consider the terms of a potential agreement, with due regard for both parties’ needs and the qualities and approach that define my work as manager. “Until then, any assumptions about my demands and my professional future remain speculation and cannot be treated as fact.” Conte has achieved success at nearly every club he has managed – most recently guiding Napoli to Serie A glory in 2025. Napoli were the third club he has scooped the Scudetto with having triumphed while in charge of Juventus and Inter Milan. He also won both the Premier League and FA Cup while at Chelsea. And even though he didn’t claim silverware at Tottenham, he managed to guide them into the Champions League after taking over when they were in ninth place.