In the given statement, Italian football manager Antonio Conte emphasizes his belief that every player on his team must work hard to earn their position as a starter. This means that no matter how skilled or experienced an individual might be, they cannot take anything for granted and must continually prove themselves worthy of playing time.
This quote underscores the principle of meritocracy in sports management, where success is solely based on talent and effort rather than reputation or past achievements. It suggests that Conte values dedication and consistent performance over status or historical contributions. By stating this, he aims to create a competitive environment where players are motivated to continually improve their skills and remain alert, knowing that their place on the team can be challenged by others who perform better. This approach not only encourages personal development but also fosters a sense of accountability and responsibility within the squad.
The quote is attributed to Ciro Immobile, an Italian professional footballer who plays as a striker for Lazio and has been known for his prolific goalscoring abilities over the years. As one of Conte's players in the past, Immobile provides insight into Conte’s managerial philosophy, highlighting how Conte manages teams with a focus on performance and effort rather than favoritism or sentimentality.
