Antonio Conte, the head coach of Tottenham, will not be able to attend their next Premier League game against West Ham as he continues to recuperate from gallbladder removal surgery that he underwent in Italy. Conte has emphasized that he will not return to work until he has fully recovered.
Despite returning to the team last week, he has admitted to underestimating the impact of the surgery. In an Instagram post, Conte expressed his responsibility towards the club, players, staff, and fans, explaining that his eagerness to return caused undue strain on his body, leading to a premature return. Although he was present for the team’s recent Champions League loss to AC Milan, Tottenham has not provided a timeline for his return to his role as head coach.
Tottenham has prioritized Conte’s health, and after a routine check-in Italy, they have confirmed that he will remain at his family home to recover. The club has assigned Cristian Stellini to take over the first-team duties while Conte recuperates. Stellini, who previously managed Tottenham’s 1-0 victory over Manchester City on 5 February, will oversee the team for the West Ham game, as well as the upcoming matches against Chelsea and Sheffield United in the FA Cup.
Conte has expressed confidence in his team’s ability to overcome Milan in the second leg of the Champions League match, with the help of the fans’ support at their stadium. However, his absence in the upcoming games is a significant setback for Tottenham. Nevertheless, Conte’s health and full recovery are the most important considerations, and the club’s decision to give him the time he needs to recuperate is the right one.
Antonio Conte’s absence from the upcoming games is a necessary step for his full recovery. Tottenham has assigned Cristian Stellini to oversee the first-team duties while Conte recuperates, and his health remains the priority. Although his absence will be a setback for Tottenham, his full recovery is vital, and the club has made the right decision to give him the time he needs.