Conte Breaks Silence: Italy Needs Action, Praises Kane and Lautaro Ahead of World Cup Semifinal

FolioPitch.com – 15 July 2026 | In an exclusive interview, Antonio Conte has delivered a stark message about Italy’s football future, declaring ‘Conte Italy s time for action Kane is almost a No 10 Lautaro shifts the balance’ as he analyzed the upcoming World Cup semifinal between England and Argentina. The former Napoli, Juventus, and Inter Milan coach, currently on holiday with his family, refused to discuss speculation linking him to the Italy national team job but offered high praise for two of his former strikers.

Conte, who led Inter to the Serie A title and later coached Tottenham, highlighted the unique qualities of Harry Kane and Lautaro Martinez. ‘Harry is a great No.9, but he’s almost a No.10 too,’ Conte said. ‘He understands movements, knows when to drop deep and play as a playmaker. It was unfair that he had never won anything, and at Bayern Munich, he’s getting the satisfaction he deserves.’ The Italian tactician also commended Kane’s leadership style, noting that his teammates trust him implicitly.

Turning to Lautaro Martinez, Conte emphasized the Argentine’s growth and impact. ‘There’s an Inter with Lautaro and an Inter without Lautaro. His presence shifts the balance,’ Conte said. He pointed out an unnoticed contribution in Argentina’s third goal against Egypt, where Lautaro carried the ball, protected it, and delivered a perfect cross. ‘You don’t expect that kind of play from a No.9,’ Conte added, praising Lautaro’s selflessness alongside Julian Alvarez.

Conte also lauded Lionel Messi, describing his incredible shape and professionalism. The core of his interview, however, revolved around the urgent need for Italian football to act. ‘Conte Italy s time for action Kane is almost a No 10 Lautaro shifts the balance’ – this phrase encapsulates his view that Italy cannot afford to miss a third consecutive World Cup. ‘Too many things have been said. It’s time for action, not for talk and politics,’ Conte declared. ‘We cannot miss three World Cups in a row. A feat has been accomplished, but in reverse.’

Despite persistent rumors linking him to the Azzurri job, Conte remained tight-lipped. ‘Now, I’m happy like this,’ he said, refusing to engage further. His comments come after Paolo Maldini’s appointment as technical director, which has cooled speculation about Conte’s return. Yet, his analysis of the semifinal between England and Argentina underscores his tactical acumen and deep understanding of the modern game.

The matchup pits Conte’s former players against each other, with Kane leading England and Lautaro representing Argentina. Conte’s insights into their playing styles reveal how each has evolved under his guidance. He described Kane as almost a playmaker and Lautaro as a balance-shifter. This ‘Conte Italy s time for action Kane is almost a No 10 Lautaro shifts the balance’ sentiment resonates throughout his assessment.

For Italy, Conte’s words serve as a rallying cry. The national team has struggled since winning Euro 2020, failing to qualify for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups. With the 2026 tournament on the horizon, Conte emphasizes the need for concrete steps. His praise for Kane and Lautaro also highlights the quality he nurtured during his club career.

As the World Cup semifinal approaches, football fans will watch closely to see if Conte’s former protégés can lead their nations to victory. The winner faces Spain in the final. Meanwhile, Italy’s football authorities must heed Conte’s call for action. ‘Conte Italy s time for action Kane is almost a No 10 Lautaro shifts the balance’ is not just a headline but a warning: talk is cheap, and results matter.

In conclusion, Antonio Conte’s interview offers a rare glimpse into the mind of one of football’s most successful coaches. While his future remains uncertain, his passion for the game and his desire to see Italy succeed are undeniable. Whether he will return to the bench or not, his words carry weight. The ‘Conte Italy s time for action Kane is almost a No 10 Lautaro shifts the balance’ narrative will likely dominate discussions as England and Argentina battle for a spot in the World Cup final.