TOTTENHAM Hotspur have announced the departure of Antonio Conte as their manager.
The Italian’s position apparently became untenable just before the international break following his comments condemning the club and players after a 3-3 draw with Southampton in which Spurs conceded two late goals.
“We can announce that Head Coach Antonio Conte has left the Club by mutual agreement,” Tottenham said in a statement on their official website late last night.
“We achieved Champions League qualification in Antonio’s first season at the Club. We thank Antonio for his contribution and wish him well for the future.”
The club added that Cristian Stellini will take over as acting head coach for the rest of the season, along with Ryan Mason as assistant head coach.
Spurs chairman Daniel Levy said the departure of former Chelsea and Inter Milan boss Conte should not derail the club from pursuing a return to the Champions League by finishing fourth in the Premier League.
“We have 10 Premier League games remaining and we have a fight on our hands for a Champions League place,” Levy said.
“We all need to pull together. Everyone has to step up to ensure the highest possible finish for our Club and amazing, loyal supporters.”
Conte, 53, joined Spurs in November 2021 and his contract was due to run out this June.
He left the club fourth in the Premier League, two points ahead of fifth-placed Newcastle United, who have two games in hand.
