Football
Ben Gladwell, Italy correspondent 9y

Antonio Conte says he has no intention of quitting as Italy coach

Italy coach Antonio Conte has said he will not resign from his position and will stay in charge until the end of Euro 2016 "whether you like it or not."

Conte, whose request to hold a training camp this week was rejected by Serie A clubs, also wanted the next domestic season to end earlier, but the dates chosen were not as early as he had wanted.

Some reports had suggested that the lack of co-operation from clubs could spark his resignation, but he emerged from a meeting with Italian FA (FIGC) president Carlo Tavecchio to rubbish such claims.

"I'm here commenting on a situation which is pretty unique and unexpected," the official FIGC website quoted him as saying.

"I can do no more than to reaffirm what I have always said -- I started on a journey with the national team, and I'm delighted I did it.

"It's a journey which foresees us qualifying for the Euros with the hope of doing as well as possible.

"We're trying to work in a united way, aware that there are going to be and there are some major difficulties, but there is a great enthusiasm on everybody's part and the desire to do something, maybe unexpected.

"I hope that this today is the final word to whether I will reach the end of my contract or not. I will get there, whether you like it or not."

Tavecchio stood squarely behind his coach, saying he wanted to "renew his contract, not terminate it."

He added: "The money invested in him is an act of faith and hope in a person who we believe is up to the job. He's our leader."

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