Chelsea news: Antonio Conte hints at key breakdown in statement after sacking

Conte was sacked last week and replaced by Maurizio Sarri.

Chelsea were blunt in their send off, failing to thank the Italian for helping them win the league and the FA Cup.

And Conte thanked the players and his staff but failed to mention anyone from the board.

“I would like to thank all of my friends at Chelsea Football Club for their hard work and support over the past two seasons which enabled us to win the Premier League and FA Cup together,” the statement read.

“To the players, whose talent and commitment was so important to our successes, I thank them for everything. It has been a pleasure working with them every day.

“To my staff, who always worked so hard, I must say thank you and well done for their professionalism and dedication throughout.

“I have enjoyed my time in England and London so much and I want to thank the Chelsea fans who have been amazing to me and my Family. It was fantastic for me to be able to share my emotions, passion and enthusiasm throughout two unforgettable seasons with these amazing Chelsea supporters, who will always stay in my heart.

“I hope Chelsea will continue to be successful and I wish everyone well for next season.

“I have made many memories during my time with Chelsea, which I will take with me into my next challenge.”

The Conte saga leaked into pre season and he even took a day of training last week.

But he was finally given the bullet on Friday as Chelsea sorted the deal with Sarri.

Conte had alienated a number of players and was involved in a boardroom tug of war over transfers.

He renewed his contract last summer after winning the league but didn’t extend it, leading to speculation he would leave this summer for much of the season.

LMA Chief Executive Richard Bevan added: “Antonio made an immediate impact when he arrived in the Premier League two years ago. His energy and enthusiasm for football has been infectious and it has been a privilege to have one of the best coaches in the world working in the Premier League to raise the standard of the league and his players at Chelsea.

“His record as a manager speaks for itself, with a record-breaking Premier League season and FA Cup title to look back on with pride. Antonio is hugely respected by his peers within the English game, who voted him as LMA Manager of the Year in 2017.

“We have no doubt that Antonio will go on to achieve many more successes in his career.”