Antonio Conte has broken his holiday silence to praise two of his former strikers, Harry Kane and Lautaro Martinez, ahead of their World Cup semifinal showdown. However, the Italian tactician refused to discuss mounting speculation regarding the vacant Italy national team manager position.
The former Napoli boss, who departed the Stadio Maradona in May following two seasons in charge, spoke to Gazzetta dello Sport while on holiday with his family. The newspaper noted that Conte agreed to the interview on the condition that discussions about his future were strictly off limits.
Italy job speculation dismissed
When pressed on the Azzurri role, Conte remained firm. “Too many things have been said. It’s time for action, not for talk and politics,” he stated. “We cannot miss three World Cups in a row. A feat has been accomplished, but in reverse.”
The Italy position has been heavily linked with Conte throughout the summer, though recent reports suggest his candidacy has diminished following Paolo Maldini’s appointment as technical director.
Former strikers earn lavish praise
Conte instead focused his attention on the upcoming last-four tie between England and Argentina, offering insight into two players he managed during spells at Tottenham Hotspur and Inter Milan respectively.
On Kane, now spearheading Bayern Munich’s attack, Conte highlighted the striker’s versatility. “Harry [Kane] is a great No.9, but he’s almost a No.10 too,” he explained. “He understands the movements; he knows when to drop deep and play as a playmaker.”
The 54-year-old also defended Kane’s leadership credentials, noting: “Kane is a leader in his own way. Perhaps not with words, but inside the game. His teammates look for him because they trust him, and he never lets them down.”
Regarding Inter captain Lautaro Martinez, Conte emphasised the Argentine’s influence. “There’s an Inter with Lautaro and an Inter without Lautaro. His presence shifts the balance,” he said. He also praised Lautaro’s unselfishness during Argentina’s campaign, referencing his involvement in the third goal against Egypt. “Lautaro, like Julian Alvarez, understood that he could still be important even if only for a few minutes. They accepted the situation by putting their egos aside and prioritising the team’s needs.”
Conte also saluted Lionel Messi’s tournament performance, remarking: “He’s gone beyond expectations, once more. He has arrived in incredible shape, which once again proves his incredible professionalism and desire.”
The winner of the semifinal between England and Argentina will advance to face Spain in the final. Conte, meanwhile, continues to enjoy his break from management following his departure from Naples.