Carragher Disappointed to See Antonio Conte Leave England

Jamie Carragher believes that the departure of Antonio Conte from the Premier League is a major blow for the division. The Italian will be remembered as a manager who forced almost the entire Premier League to change their formation in order to prevent Chelsea from running away with league titles. At a time when playing for a comeback was the norm, Conte brought in his preferred 3-5-2 formation to great success at Stamford Bridge. This formation yielded a Premier League title and an FA Cup medal in the last two campaigns. However, Conte fell out with Chelsea – much like he has done at his previous clubs – and has been sacked to be replaced by Maurizio Sarri.

Conte won numerous hearts at Chelsea with his passionate display on the sidelines. The Italian still had one year left on his contract and was not ready to relinquish his role – in order to receive a compensation from Chelsea. Now, he is expected to return to Italian football since he has already turned down an offer from Real Madrid. This is unlikely to worry Conte, who may be back in management within the next 12 months. Carragher says that Conte has been an impeccable manager for the Premier League as he has been able to create a new identity.

"Losing Antonio Conte is a big blow for the Premier League. I think he's been brilliant. He changed to three at the back at Chelsea and it seemed like the whole country changed to it - even England did.He's had a major impact in English football. To come in and win the league then the FA Cup in your first two years is some achievement. It will be tough to replicate what Conte did as the competition is so fierce with Manchester City pushing on," said Carragher.