4 takeaways from Antonio Conte’s first Chelsea press conference

Antonio Conte coy with potential tactics – Dan McClue

In his inaugural press conference, Antonio Conte was asked the question on everyone’s lips: “back three or back four?”

With that beaming smile and a chuckle, he refused to give anything away – or maybe it’s because he doesn’t know yet. Sure, he had plenty of time to watch Chelsea flop last season and probably had some ideas as to what he would do to a team of dethroned champions.

He told the waiting audience, “the coach is the tailor, tasked with finding the best dress for the team”. Il Sarto – the tailor – that’s the nickname given to him (by me just now), and I’m certain everyone else will follow suit (excuse the pun).

There have been plenty of articles written about what line-up Il Sarto (it’ll stick, I promise) will use to start the season. We will get our first taste of what to expect on Saturday at 16:00GMT when the Blues take on Rapid Wien.

Il Sarto, in his press conference, alluded to the fact that he has made changes during his tenure at the previous clubs. The ‘chameleon’ tactics he uses aren’t just for the fluidity of his teams during matches, but during a season, too.

So while he may line up with four at the back during the pre-season, or the start of the 2016/17 campaign, he will change and adapt as he sees fit – incoming transfers and injuries will play their part.

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Quotes taken from the Chelsea official website.