Conte not considering Saudi Pro League move this season, says agent

Antonio Conte is not considering an offer to manage Al Ahli this season, according to his agent Federico Pastorello.

Conte, the former Napoli manager, has been linked with a possible move to the Saudi Pro League as Al Ahli consider a change in the dugout after a decline in results.

However, Pastorello told Saudi newspaper Al-Midan: “Managing Al Ahli? The option of coaching in the Saudi league this season is not under consideration. It may become available in future seasons, but it is not currently among Conte’s options.”

The agent added that Conte has received several offers from European clubs but has not yet made a final decision on his next appointment.

Conte’s name has recently been associated with Manchester United and Juventus, with both clubs experiencing poor results.

The Italian manager previously addressed speculation about his future in a statement, saying: “My name has been linked with many clubs, but there are currently no advanced negotiations. After a wonderful and successful experience with Napoli, I will give myself enough time to assess how and when to return to coaching.”

He added: “It will be a carefully considered decision, which I will make when I believe the conditions are right.”

Conte also rejected reports that he had already made financial demands or requested complete control from the clubs with which he had been linked.

“I have read claims about financial demands and requests for full powers that I have supposedly already made to the clubs mentioned, as well as reservations relating to what has been described as my ‘strong personality’,” he said.

“These claims have no basis in fact, because there is currently no concrete evidence on which such assessments can be based.”

Conte said any genuine opportunity would need to be discussed directly with the club involved.

“If a real opportunity arises, the time will be right to negotiate with the interested club and jointly assess the terms of a possible agreement, while taking into account our shared needs and the characteristics that define my work as a coach,” he said.

He concluded: “Until then, any speculation about my demands and my professional future remains assumption and cannot be considered fact.”

Marino Pusic took charge of Al Ahli at the start of the current season, replacing Matthias Jaissle. Under Pusic, the club have won 11 matches, drawn two and lost five in all competitions.