Euro success won’t alter Conte’s plans

Antonio Conte has confirmed he will step down as Italy coach even if he guides the country to Euro 2016 success in France this summer.

The 46-year-old took over from Cesare Prandelli in summer 2014 following the Azzurri’s disappointing World Cup performance in Brazil when they went out at the group stages alongside England.

The former Juventus boss successfully got the side through qualification for the European Championship as Group H winners with seven wins and three draws from their 10 matches.

Indeed Conte has only experienced two defeats in friendly games against Portugal and Belgium respectively in the 17 games he has been at the helm.

Italy will follow up a 1-1 friendly draw against Spain last week with a trip to face Germany in Munich on Tuesday night and Conte is happy with the shape of the side looking ahead to Euro 2016.

But, following the recent confirmation that he will leave his post after this summer’s finals, Conte is adamant even success in France will not change his mind-set.

Conte, who is being heavily linked with a move to the English Premier League to become the new Chelsea manager ahead of next season, said: “My decision to leave is not dependent on results at the European Championship and only dependent on returning to coaching.

“For example, after this game I will have lots of free time, maybe I will devote myself to my family.

“But I need to get back to working with players every day.”

Italy, who are 17.00 to win Euro 2016, are 4.50 to win in Germany on Tuesday night, while the hosts are 1.85 to bounce back from their defeat against England and secure the victory. The draw is 3.50.