Antonio Conte has admitted his surprise at Michael Emenalo’s decision to resign as the club’s technical director.
Emenalo joined Chelsea in 2007 as their chief scout, and became an assistant first team coach when Ray Wilkins left the club in November 2010.
Eight months later, Emenalo was appointed as the club’s technical director, with responsibilities including heading up the academy as well as overseeing the Blues’ scouting network.
Chelsea manager Conte has admitted that Emenalo’s decision to resign and spend more time with his family is a loss for the club (via the Evening Standard):
For sure, this is a loss, a big loss for us.
With Michael, our relationship was very good. He helped me a lot last season, and also this season. It was a surprise for me, his resignation from his job.
At the same time I think that we have to respect his decision, his professional decision. And I wish for him and his family the best, the best for the present and the future.
Emenalo was born in Aba, Abia, Nigeria and began his playing career there. He appeared at the 1994 World Cup with Nigeria, and earned three of his 14 international caps at the tournament.
His only job in football since hanging up his boots has been with Chelsea, but the 52-year-old wanted to spend more time with his family, so quit his role at Stamford Bridge.
