Antonio Conte is reportedly interested in taking charge of Manchester United, with the former Chelsea manager said to be ready for a return to the Premier League.
The development comes after United’s 2-0 Champions League defeat by Atletico Madrid on Tuesday, a result which extended Michael Carrick’s winless run to five matches and intensified scrutiny over his position.
Conte is available after leaving Napoli and has reportedly identified the Manchester United job as an opportunity that would seriously interest him. Italian journalist Daniele Longo said the 57-year-old feels ready for another challenge in England.
Antonio Conte ready for Manchester United challenge
Conte has previous Premier League experience from spells with Chelsea and Tottenham. His time at Stamford Bridge brought immediate success, with Chelsea winning the title in his first season in 2016-17 before lifting the FA Cup the following campaign.
His arrival at Old Trafford would represent a significant change in direction. Conte’s teams are typically well organised, physically demanding and difficult to break down, qualities United have struggled to show consistently this season.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has previously described Conte as “one of the best, maybe the best coach in the world right now”, while praising his work with Juventus, Italy and Chelsea.
Carrick remains in charge and is understood to have earned time after guiding United back into the Champions League last season. However, five matches without a victory has created mounting pressure as the club’s form falters both domestically and in Europe.
Conte’s reported interest would give INEOS an experienced alternative should the situation deteriorate further. United would not need to gamble on an unproven replacement, with the Italian possessing both a Premier League title and extensive experience at the highest level.
