Antonio Conte has indicated he is in no hurry to return to management, despite being linked with the Manchester United job if the club decide to part company with Michael Carrick.
The former Chelsea and Tottenham manager has been without a club since leaving Napoli in the summer. He remains one of the most prominent coaches available, but his latest comments suggest a move back into the dugout is not imminent.
Speaking in a video message to the Festival dello Sport in Trento, Conte said: “I’m still enjoying my vacation, seeing as this year I have the opportunity to rest and relax.”
Conte keeps Manchester United links in perspective
Conte’s remarks come amid continued speculation that he could be considered by United’s hierarchy should they decide a change is required. He has also been linked with a return to Juventus, although the Serie A club have publicly backed Luciano Spalletti.
There has been no indication that Carrick has been dismissed. INEOS have continued to support him despite a difficult start, meaning Conte’s potential appointment remains a hypothetical scenario for now.
Conte would represent a significant decision for Manchester United. He has won league titles in both England and Italy, has experience of the Premier League and earned further recognition after guiding Napoli to Serie A and Supercoppa Italiana success during his two seasons at the club.
His record of making an immediate impact would appeal to United, but his approach has also brought him into conflict with owners when he has felt a squad was not strong enough. That could become either a strength or a source of tension at Old Trafford.
For the moment, Conte appears content to remain away from football. If United’s results fail to improve and the manager’s position becomes available later in the season, however, his availability is likely to keep him among the names under consideration.
