Conte to turn Chelsea's 'small flame' into 'blazing inferno'

Antonio Conte smiles during his first press conference as Chelsea manager, July 14, 2016. [Photo/IC]

The 46-year-old Conte has a reputation for being one of the most animated coaches around. He is perpetual motion in the technical area, acting as if he is kicking every ball.

At times last season, it felt like Chelsea's players were demotivated and going through the motions under Mourinho. It's unlikely Conte will let that happen.

"I have passion and I want to transfer my passion to my players, also to my fans," he said. "I suffer during the game and I want my players to see this.

"I fight with all my strength to reach with my players the habit of the final victory. This is a great challenge."

Conte said John Terry would remain as club captain next season, whether the 35-year-old center back plays or not. And Conte also plans to call fellow Italian coach Claudio Ranieri, who led Leicester to an improbable Premier League title success last season.

"He's a lovely man," Conte said, "and I will ask him a bit of advice."

Conte would not comment on transfer speculation. His one signing to date is Belgium striker Michy Batshuayi.