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Arteta Pays Tribute to Sacked Tottenham Manager Conte

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, February 11th 2026 at 13:26 GMT by The Straits Times
      Locales: England, UNITED KINGDOM

London, UK - February 11th, 2026 - Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has offered a heartfelt tribute to recently sacked Tottenham Hotspur manager Antonio Conte, emphasizing the Italian tactician's undeniable and lasting influence on the Premier League. Conte was relieved of his duties at Spurs yesterday following a period of 16 months, despite the team holding a respectable fourth-place position. However, a widening gap in the pursuit of Champions League qualification ultimately led to the decision.

Arteta, currently leading Arsenal in a fierce title challenge against Manchester City, took time to acknowledge Conte's professional achievements and the high regard in which he is held within the football community. "I have immense respect for him," Arteta stated in a press conference earlier today. "What he has done for this league, the impact he has had on the league, is remarkable."

Conte's arrival in the Premier League initially brought a fresh tactical approach and a renewed emphasis on defensive solidity, a marked departure from some of the more open styles prevalent in English football. He previously managed Chelsea, securing the Premier League title in the 2016-17 season with a then-record 93 points. This success demonstrated his ability to quickly adapt to the demands of the league and implement a winning philosophy. His influence extended beyond Chelsea, with many teams attempting to emulate his 3-5-2 formation and high-intensity pressing system.

However, Conte's time at Tottenham was characterized by a complex and often turbulent relationship with both the club's hierarchy and its supporters. Reports suggest frequent clashes with chairman Daniel Levy over transfer policy and perceived limitations within the squad. Conte was never shy about voicing his frustrations publicly, a trait that, while demonstrating his passion, occasionally strained relations. This willingness to be candid - often brutally so - about the challenges he faced at Spurs sets him apart from many managers who prefer a more diplomatic approach. It fostered a perception of him as a manager who prioritized results above all else, even at the cost of maintaining smooth internal relationships.

The reasons behind Conte's dismissal extend beyond purely on-field performance. Sources indicate a growing disconnect between his vision for the club and the long-term strategy outlined by the board. Specifically, Conte reportedly sought significant investment in players to address what he saw as key weaknesses in the squad, particularly in midfield. When these demands weren't met, friction increased, culminating in the decision to part ways. This highlights a broader issue within the Premier League: the delicate balance between a manager's tactical demands and the club's financial limitations.

Arsenal, meanwhile, are enjoying a stellar season, currently sitting in second place and proving to be a genuine title contender. Arteta attributes much of his team's success to a cohesive squad, a positive training environment, and a clearly defined playing style. When discussing Conte, Arteta specifically lauded the Italian's relentless pursuit of victory. "He's always been someone who has demanded a lot and he's always been someone who wants to win. That's something that I admire a lot." This shared ambition, the drive to achieve success, is a common thread among top-level managers like Arteta and Conte, even amidst professional rivalries.

Looking ahead, the search for Conte's replacement at Tottenham will be crucial. The club is expected to consider a range of candidates, from experienced European managers to up-and-coming coaches. The new manager will face the challenge of rebuilding team morale and implementing a playing style that aligns with the club's ambitions. Several names are already being linked, including former Bayern Munich boss Julian Nagelsmann and current Brighton & Hove Albion manager Roberto De Zerbi.

Arteta's comments serve as a reminder that even in the fiercely competitive world of professional football, respect and admiration for colleagues remain paramount. Conte's impact on the Premier League will be felt for years to come, not only through his tactical innovations but also through the high standards he set for himself and his players. As Arsenal prepares to face West Ham on Sunday, Arteta will undoubtedly draw upon the lessons learned from observing Conte's career, hoping to further solidify his own legacy in the English top flight.