Tottenham forward Richarlison has denied he played a role in the departure of former manager Antonio Conte, insisting he had a lot of respect for the Italian coach.
Conte left Tottenham by mutual consent on Sunday after relations between him and the club deteriorated at all levels in recent weeks.
The former Chelsea, Juventus and Inter Milan boss launched a scathing attack on his players and the club’s ownership following a 3-3 draw against Southampton before the international break.
– Stream on ESPN+: LaLiga, Bundesliga, more (U.S.)
– Olley: The inside story of Antonio Conte’s Tottenham exit
A report from Argentina’s TyC Sports suggested that Richarlison and defender Cristian Romero had subsequently given the club an ultimatum over Conte’s future. That claim was refuted by the Brazil international on social media on Thursday.
“Questioning and criticizing me as a player for my performance is part of football and I got it,” he said. “However, telling lies about me, I don’t accept! I’ve always had a lot of respect for Conte and for all my coaches.
“He helped me a lot in my coming to the Spurs and, whenever we had a problem (even if it was public) we solved it based on conversation and professionalism – and this he can confirm.
“I wasn’t a mutiny leader against him, it was quite the opposite. I’m sorry I didn’t deliver as much as he expected of me and I didn’t do enough for him to stay. When he left, I sent him a message thanking him for everything and wishing him the best cause that’s what he deserves!”
