Antonio Conte has confirmed he was not approached by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) regarding a return to the Azzurri bench, while delivering a glowing endorsement of Tottenham Hotspur centre-back Cristian "Cuti" Romero as the standout defender of the 2026 World Cup.
Speaking as a pundit on DAZN Italia ahead of the World Cup Final between Spain and Argentina on Sunday evening, the former Napoli and Inter Milan coach clarified that speculation linking him with a second stint as Italy head coach is unfounded.
"I was already the Italy coach and it was a wonderful experience," Conte said. "I think that people with strong values have been put in charge. We all know Marco Malagò is a strong figure, while Paolo Maldini could not remain out of football."
When asked directly whether the FIGC and its new leadership had contacted him to gauge his availability, Conte's response was unequivocal: "No."
The 57-year-old is currently a free agent after negotiating a mutual termination of his contract with Napoli, just one year after leading the Partenopei to the Scudetto. His name had been linked alongside those of Roberto Mancini and Andrea Pirlo as potential candidates for the Italy job under the new federation structure spearheaded by Malagò and Maldini.
Beyond the national team picture, Conte turned his attention to the World Cup stage — and specifically to a player he coached during his time at Tottenham Hotspur.
Romero has been a commanding presence at the heart of Argentina's defence throughout their run to the final, and Conte believes his former charge deserves far greater recognition.
"His performance in this World Cup has been rather under-estimated. He is having an extraordinary tournament, the best defender by a mile compared to all the others," Conte said. "He has improved so much."
With reports emerging that Inter Milan are keen to bring the Argentine international back to Serie A, Conte was asked about a potential reunion at the San Siro. While stopping short of confirming any deal, he made clear his admiration for the 28-year-old.
"I read that some Italian teams want him, but I don't know if Tottenham want to sell… He is a tough player, and Argentine players still play street football, which is a positive thing that we are missing in Italy," Conte added.
Romero's performances for Argentina at the 2026 World Cup have reinforced his reputation as one of Europe's elite centre-backs, and Conte's public backing will only intensify speculation about a summer move to Inter.
Sources
- https://football-italia.net/conte-no-italy-romero-best-defender-world-cup/
