Antonio Conte has dropped an intriguing hint about his next managerial move as speculation continues over the Manchester United job.
The Italian is still available after leaving Napoli and has now revealed that he wants his next challenge to be to rebuild a historically successful club that has fallen away from its previous standards.
Conte did not name Manchester United specifically, but his description will draw attention at Old Trafford amid mounting pressure on Michael Carrick after a difficult start to the season.
Antonio Conte reveals what he wants from his next job
In an interview with The Athletic, Conte revealed his desire to take over a historic powerhouse that has drifted away from its glory days.
“There are a lot of clubs that have lost sight of their history a bit,” Conte said.
“I’d like to go to one of these clubs to dust off that history and make it shine again. Clubs that have pressure, at the end of the day you know you’re going there to compete, not just to participate.”
? Antonio Conte about his future: “There are many clubs that have somewhat lost sight of their history…”.
“I’d like to go to one of these clubs to dust off that history and make it shine again,” he told @TheAthleticFC. pic.twitter.com/1JobmZwzek
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 5, 2026
While the tactician refrained from directly naming specific teams, his criteria indicate Old Trafford have struggled to live up to the historic standard in recent years.
Antonio Conte linked with Man United amid pressure from Michael Carrick
The timing of Conte’s statements comes at a time when the pressure on Manchester United coach Michael Carrick is increasing.
United have made a slow start to the campaign, winning just one of their opening Premier League matches and struggling for consistency in the competition.
Although Carrick has led United back into the Champions League in recent times, their current slump has fueled intense speculation over his long-term tenure, alerting the Old Trafford hierarchy to world-class alternatives such as Conte.
According to Italian media, Conte is emerging as the leading candidate for the job, with reports suggesting some contact has already been made.
Conte would like to return to the Premier League after his failed Spurs stint
Taking over at Old Trafford would also represent Conte’s third managerial spell in English football.
The 57-year-old previously enjoyed considerable success with Chelsea, winning the Premier League in his first campaign before lifting the FA Cup.
His subsequent spell at Tottenham proved to be even more turbulent and ended with his departure in March 2023.
Conte has nevertheless shown himself to be comfortable working under immense pressure throughout his managerial career, while also winning several Serie A titles.
There is currently no indication that Manchester United have decided to replace Carrick or the position regarding Conte.
But with the Italian openly admitting he wants to rebuild a historic club where he will challenge for trophies, his comments are sure to fuel further speculation over a potential move to Old Trafford.