Chelsea legend John Terry has paid tribute to departed Chelsea boss Antonio Conte after helping him through a difficult period of his professional career. The 37-year-old was sparingly used during Conte’s first season at Stamford Bridge between 2016 and 2017 but he nevertheless ended his Blues career on a high after parting ways as a Premier League winner.
In a tribute on his official Instagram account, Terry thanked Conte for being honest in the judgement over his performances during his final year with the west London giants, he penned: “Love this man. Thanks for everything Boss. In a time that should have been the most difficult season of my career, Antonio was honest, respectful, and there for me whenever I needed him. I loved working and learning from him.”
Conte had managed to guide the Blues to the Premier League title during his maiden campaign with the club but he could not replicate the showing during the 2017/18 season where the Blues finished a disappointing fifth in the standings. As such, Blues owner has taken the decision to sack the Italian despite the FA Cup success after he failed to deliver Champions League football for next season.
Chelsea have yet to make a formal announcement regarding their next manager but widespread sources have already confirmed that Maurizio Sarri has penned a contract with the club. The 59-year-old was fancied to takeover at Stamford Bridge as early as May but the Blues had to play the waiting time to discuss a compensation package with Napoli president Aurelio de Laurentiis.
Sarri had been dismissed from the managerial position at Napoli in May itself but De Laurentiis remained adamant that he would not release the Italian from his contract unless the Blues settle for a compensation package. Meanwhile, the Blues are also on the cusp of their first summer signing with Napoli’s Jorginho on course to be reunited with Sarri.