In the context of the match between Celta Vigo and Juventus scheduled for this evening at 9pm, former Juventus striker Fernando Llorente expressed his opinions on Antonio Conte's future. The interview, published by La Gazzetta dello Sport, saw the former center forward speaking with the same passion that distinguished him on the pitch, but this time as a commentator.
Llorente recalled Conte's interview, in which the coach declared that he wanted "a club that has lost sight of its history a bit in order to dust it off". The former player reiterated that the team Conte thought of was the one of his heart: Juventus. "Sooner or later he will return to his home, he is the ideal coach for Juventus. Antonio is top: he and Ancelotti are the best coaches I have had," said Llorente, underlining his confidence in Conte's ability to bring the team back to its level of excellence.
However, Llorente also clarified that Conte's "ghost" does not constitute an obstacle for Luciano Spalletti, current Juventus coach. "We are talking about another coach who has experience and has won: I think he falls asleep thinking about how to improve Juventus and not about Conte. Spalletti must aim to win the Europa League and fight for the top places in the league", he explained, highlighting the need to concentrate on the present and immediate results.
The commentator reiterated that expectations for Juventus are high, but that recent seasons have presented difficulties. “Expectations are high at Juventus, but we cannot pretend nothing has happened: the last few seasons have been tough,” concluded Llorente, suggesting that the team must face the challenge with seriousness and determination.
With the Europa League in sight and the Serie A season approaching its climax, Juventus will have to decide whether to welcome Conte's return or continue to build on Spalletti. Llorente's interview, although unofficial, offers food for thought on the technical future of the Turin club and the role that the legendary Italian coach could play.