Former Chelsea star Gianfranco Zola has told talkSPORT that he does not see Antonio Conte departing the club any time soon.
Pressure has been building on Conte, with the Blues having underwhelmed this season. After winning the Premier League last term, Chelsea have been below par and scrutiny has clouded Conte’s future with the club.
The Italian tactician confessed following his side’s embarrassing 3-0 home defeat to Bournemouth that the primary aim for Chelsea this season is qualifying for the Champions League.
Zola believes this was a tactic from Conte to motivate his men ahead of what promises to be a testing end to the season.
I believe Conte does that because he wants to motivate everyone. Nothing is guaranteed in the Premier League, the games are all very difficult. There are no results that are assured. If you want three points against Bournemouth, you have to play at your best and you also need your full team available, otherwise you might have a problem. I have no doubts they will make the top four. It’s tough, but they will be there.
Conte has previously insisted that he is fully committed to the cause at Chelsea but concerns are growing that come the end of the season, he could seek pastures new.
Zola, though, is not sure that is the case and cannot see the former Juventus manager leaving London in the near future.
It’s very difficult to see a coach like him going. He has done so well for the club. Who knows? Football is very unpredictable, especially nowadays, but I really doubt this because I know how good Antonio is, how important he has been to the club. Nobody is themselves when you lose a game. It’s very hard to take.
Conte is a guy who has been many times in difficult moments, but his reaction has already been good.
Chelsea will be looking to bounce back on Monday, when they make the short trip to Watford in the Premier League.
