Inter Antonio Conte’s boss is poised to revive his rivalry with Jose Mourinho next season, as the Portuguese prepares to take on Roma’s charge, but Angelo Alessio insists on talking about tensions between the pair blown out of proportion.
Now they respect each other
The two fiery characters have bumped their heads in the past, and their time together in the Premier League in Chelsea and Man Utd see sparks fly. Jose Mourinho reacted angrily to Antonio Conte’s celebrations during a meeting at Stamford Bridge, with the latter branded his coaching colleague a little man in January 2018. A more athletic drama is expected as the duo cross tactical swords again, but Angelo Alessio’s former assistant to Antonio insists that any differences have been resolved. He said they are a bit alike. They have strong characters and maybe this could be one of the reasons why they clashed. He also said that they are smart people, so in the end they cleared the air. They respect each other now, and he is sure they will see that when they meet next season.
Never say never in football
Antonio, who saw Chelsea in England before the Premier League title and winning the FA Cup, has just led Inter to the first Serie A crown in 11 years since Jose last achieved the feat in 2010. However, questions have been asked about how long he will hold out amid talk of financial difficulties at San Siro. A return to Juve for the 51-year-old has been controversial, but Angelo can’t see the steps being returned to Turin by the man who starred for the Bianconeri as a player and enjoyed three memorable seasons with them as manager between 2011 and 2014. Referring to talks about a re-run with Juventus, with Pirlo under pressure in that position at the moment, Angelo said he doesn’t think so right now. It’s hard to predict now. It seems unrealistic, but never say never in football.