Tottenham manager Antonio Conte says that he is 'disturbed' by the fall-out from a recent interview, which suggested that he was unhappy with Spurs' January transfer business. Stories had circulated suggesting that the Italian was going public with uncomfortable home truths for chairman Daniel Levy and that Conte could leave in the summer.
Antonio Conte elaborated on speculation surrounding his relationship with Daniel Levy (Image: GETTY)
In a recent interview with Sky Italia, Conte claimed that his squad had become 'technically weaker' since January.
He also suggested that his view on ideal signings differed from the club's philosophy, with Levy and co preferring to chase young talent, and Conte demanding experienced stars.
During Friday's press conference before Spurs head to the Etihad on Saturday, the Italian claimed that he was 'disturbed' by the way the interview had been received.
He also claims that he will refrain from doing interviews in Italian, for fear of mistranslations creating similar issues in the future.
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"During the interview after the transfer market they asked me about the club and if I'm happy," he explained, "I said the club did the best can do.
"We lost four players, important players for Tottenham. These players we sent away on loan cost a lot of money.
"Numerically you could be a bit weaker.
"Then I said with Kulusevski and Bentancur we are more complete.
"I don't understand why someone want to create a problem between me [and Levy].
Questions have been asked of Daniel Levy after Antonio Conte's recent comments in the Italian media (Image: GETTY)
"Also, in the past [there have been] a lot of stories between the chairman and the club. He knows my thoughts.
"It's not important for me to go to the media. I can speak to him."
After putting the issue to bed, Conte must prepare his Spurs side for a tricky assignment against a rampant Manchester City on Saturday afternoon.
The Sky Blues have collected 43 points from the last available 45, while the Lilywhites come into the tie nursing an unfortunate run which has seen them lose each of teir last three Premier League games.