Newcastle United striker Callum Wilson has admitted that it is ‘disappointing’ to see Antonio Conte leave Tottenham Hotspur.
Conte parted ways with Spurs on Sunday, who are currently battling with Newcastle for a place in next season’s Champions League.
The Italian manager’s position became untenable after a recent 3-3 draw with Southampton, when Conte took aim at the players and the club’s culture after the final whistle.
Tottenham’s stuttering form has boosted Newcastle’s top four hopes. The gap between the two clubs is now just two points, and Eddie Howe’s side also boast two games in hand.
The change of management could have a huge impact on the top four race, but it does not look like Daniel Levy will be appointing an immediate replacement. Instead, Cristian Stellini will lead them for the remaining games.
While Conte’s spell has ended in disappointment, he remains a highly reputable manager with a plethora of honours behind him. And now Wilson has expressed his disappointment at seeing the 53-year-old lose his job.
Callum Wilson reacts to Antonio Conte leaving Spurs
Wilson has spoke about Conte’s departure on the latest episode of the Footballer’s Football Podcast.
“He’s a top manager,” he said.
“So it’s disappointing to see a manager of his calibre leave the Premier League but I’m sure he’ll be back in the game in no time at another top club for sure.”
Wilson was then asked if the change of manager will impact Newcastle’s bid to finish above Tottenham in the table.
“It could go both ways,” he said.
“They could wait until the end of this season to appointing a new manager which means the players are playing under temporary charge which means they have a lot more control and freedom. It’s a difficult one to say so far. I guess the next few games will determine whether it’s a positive or a negative.
“But Tottenham are a top side regardless of the manager that is in place.”
Only time will tell what difference it makes
As Wilson says, Conte’s departure could go either way. It could lift the pressure off the Tottenham players and give them a freedom that has been missing from their performances.
Alternatively, it could be the same old story due to not appointing a replacement. Instead, Spurs will continue with the same coaching setup.
It is not long until Newcastle find out what a Conte-less Spurs looks like. The Magpies welcome Tottenham to St James’ Park on April 23rd, in what is going to be a huge game. By then it should be a lot clearer whether they have improved due to the change of management.
But as Wilson says, Conte will be back with a top club in the future. His record speaks for itself – he is a serial winner. The Tottenham gig did not work out, but it will not define him as a manager.
The next time the Newcastle job becomes available (which hopefully is not very soon), do not be surprised if Conte is linked again just like he was in 2021.
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