Capello: Differences and similarities between ‘best’ Italian coaches Conte and Allegri | OneFootball

Fabio Capello says Antonio Conte and Massimiliano Allegri are the ‘best Italian coaches’ as they have ‘clear ideas’ and no ‘tactical prejudice’, although they communicate very differently.

Sunday’s meeting between Milan and Inter at San Siro will mark a reunion between the most successful Serie A coaches of recent years, as Conte and Allegri together have won 11 domestic titles in the last 15 seasons.

Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport on Friday, ex-Milan and Juventus coach Capello analysed differences and similarities between the two Italian tacticians, calling them the “best coaches” in Italy.

Capello: similarities between Conte and Allegri

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 18: Antonio Conte, Head Coach of Napoli, looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Manchester City and SSC Napoli at City of Manchester Stadium on September 18, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

“Allegri has won more league titles than anyone else currently in Serie A, while Conte even managed to win the Premier League. I was always taught that the best are the ones who win,” said Capello.

So, what do Allegri and Conte have in common?

“Having a clear vision. Both Conte and Allegri are always in control of their teams,” argued Capello.

“Even without sticking to fixed formations. They both know how to be flexible and adapt to the players they have available, without tactical prejudice like football fanatics. They’re exceptional at giving structure and recognising the players’ qualities. Even when they have to rely on the club to buy them the right players on the market.”

Allegri has won Serie A titles as a coach, one with Milan and five with Juventus, while Conte has five, three with Juventus, one with Inter and one with Napoli.

Capello: differences between Conte and Allegri

MILAN, ITALY – AUGUST 23: AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri gestures during the Serie A match between AC Milan and US Cremonese at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on August 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Contrary to Allegri, however, Conte doesn’t have a successful history in the Champions League, while Allegri has reached the Final twice.

“I don’t think there’s a real reason,” said Capello.

“Sometimes it just happens that way. History tells us that Allegri has reached the Final twice with Juventus, but it must also be said that the second time, he had a very strong team.”

Lastly, the former Milan coach explained what separates Conte and Allegri.

“The way they communicate externally. Both have strong personalities and are always very direct. Max is more corporate and composed, while Antonio tends to complain more, even pointing the finger at the club,” Capello concluded.