Cesc Fabregas has begrudgingly admitted Tottenham have made an impressive appointment in bringing in Antonio Conte as head coach.
The Italian has been officially confirmed as Nuno Espirito Santo’s replacement, and will take charge of Spurs for the first time against Vitesse on Thursday night in the Europa Conference League.
Fabregas, who as a former Arsenal and Chelsea player enjoyed a long rivalry with Tottenham, tweeted his reaction to the news.
He posted: “I hate to say it but what an appointment by Spurs.”
The Spanish midfielder made 61 Premier League appearances under Conte during the Italian’s two-year spell as Chelsea manager, and was part of the side that lifted the title in the 2016/17 season.
Fabregas also featured in Chelsea’s 4-2 win under Conte against Tottenham at Wembley in the FA Cup semi-final in 2017.
Ossie Ardiles, who had a ten-year playing career at Spurs before returning in 1993 for a spell as manager, was thrilled to see Conte appointed as the new head coach.
“Welcome to our club. Great appointment, very impressive record,” Ardiles posted on Twitter.
“Wish you and your staff all the very best of luck. COYS COYS.”
Gary Lineker was similarly excited, labelling Conte as one of the best in the world.
He tweeted: ”This is a very very good appointment. One of the few absolutely proven elite coaches in world football.”
