Four-time Serie A winning manager has not offered himself to Barcelona, contrary to reports

While there is still a lot of time left in the season, Barcelona are already exploring their options with regards to their new manager. As such, several names such as Hansi Flick, Jurgen Klopp, Mikel Arteta and Roberto De Zerbi have been shortlisted and Antonio Conte is also on the list.

While a lot has been said about the former Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur manager, a report from Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo has affirmed that the Italian has not offered himself to Barcelona yet.

What’s the story?

The latest name circulating in connection with the managerial position at Barcelona is Conte. However, contrary to certain reports suggesting that Conte expressed interest in joining the club, the Italian coach has categorically denied making any such offer. 

He refutes claims that either the sporting director, Deco, or the club president, Joan Laporta, have approached him.

The aforementioned outlet, which claims to have verified this information through reliable sources, has confirmed Conte’s denial. As of now, Barcelona does not consider Conte as one of its preferred choices for the managerial role.

Details of the rumour

Earlier today, journalist Fabrizio Romano reported that there is absolutely nothing going on between Barcelona and Conte. However, he did say that the likes of Thiago Motta and Hansi Flick remain the contenders.

“Antonio Conte offered to Barcelona as a new manager? From what I’m told, it’s something not real, not true. At the moment, there is nothing ongoing between Barcelona and Antonio Conte.

“What I’m told is that Hansi Flick would be super happy to join Barca. So, he’s really tempted by the possibility and Hansi Flick is super open about the Barca job, but it’s on Barca. Barca have to decide – [Joan] Laporta, Deco, all the people at the club – who is the manager they want and, at the moment, they still have not made a decision,” he said.

As of today, there is nothing concrete related to Barcelona’s coaching position, but this is expected to gather pace over the coming weeks.