Alasdair Gold explains why Juventus return may be ‘difficult’ for Conte

Alasdair Gold has revealed that Antonio Conte has fallen out with Juventus owner Andrea Agnelli in the past, which might rule out the possibility of the Spurs head coach returning to the Allianz Stadium.

Over the last week, reports from Italy have suggested that Conte could rejoin Juve at the end of the current season.

Italian journalist Paolo Bargiggia claimed last Thursday that the Old Lady could look to appoint the 53-year-old next summer and added that the Spurs boss is open to returning to his former club, which is why he has not renewed his deal with the Lilywhites.

This was backed up by a report in Calciomercato, who claimed over the weekend that Conte had pushed back talks over a contract renewal with Spurs until January, partly because he wants to see if the Bianconeri make an approach for him.

Gold has now ruled out the possibility of Conte leaving Tottenham before the end of the season and explained that the Italian coach does not get along with Agnelli.

When asked about the rumours of Conte potentially returning to the Serie A giants, the journalist said on a Q&A on Football.London: “Conte has a contract until the end of this season and both he and Spurs have the option to agree on another year.

“Leaving midway through this season would prove very difficult unless Conte and Daniel Levy or Fabio Paratici have the mother of all fallings out, because otherwise, Levy is not going to let him go without a huge compensation fee.

“That’s also the reason why heading back to Juventus, despite his affection for the club, might be difficult.

“Conte fell out big time with Juve owner Andrea Agnelli back in 2014 when he left the club a day into pre-season. According to the Italian media, Juve director Pavel Nedved has been desperate to get Conte back in recent years but Agnelli has not consented.

“Even last year there were suggestions of a spat between the two men when Inter played Juventus, with claims that Conte held his middle finger up at Agnelli who reportedly swore back at him.

“Spurs certainly need to convince Conte that he can win things with the club and that future transfer windows will continue to show improved investment in the team.

“That’s the reason he’s left most clubs in his career, apart from Chelsea when he was relieved of his duties, and Tottenham will be subjected to the same demands.”

Spurs Web Opinion

I do not think the past issues between Conte and Agnelli, would necessarily rule out the potential return to Turin for the Spurs boss. The pair could well put their differences behind them if they felt a link-up would suit both parties.

However, this is not something Tottenham fans should be worried about for the time being as the 53-year-old seems fully committed to his project in North London. If he is backed again next summer, there is no reason for him to leave.

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