Tottenham star Richarlison has shut down rumours over his part in Antonio Conte’s exit and insisted he was not the “mutiny leader” behind the departure of his former manager.
Conte left Tottenham on Sunday by mutual consent a week on from an extraordinary rant in which he criticised his own “selfish players” after the 3-3 draw at Southampton.
Richarlison, who was injured in the St Mary’s clash, was later accused by a journalist from Argentinian broadcaster TyC Sports of giving an ultimatum to Tottenham alongside Cristian Romero over Conte’s future.
But the Brazil international has moved to reject those allegations on Thursday. “Questioning and criticising me as a player for my performance is part of football and I got it,” Richarlison said on Twitter.
“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 (sic) 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!
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“On the other hand, the journalist responsible for this awful lie did not even do the least which would be talking to my PR or listening to me. Bad professional and bad character! And shame on you, TyC Sports!”
Richarlison is set to miss Tottenham’s first game since the exit of Conte, what would have been his return to Everton on Monday, with a muscle injury.
