Antonio Conte has described Michael Emenalo's decision to leave Chelsea as a "big loss" because of the help he gave the Italian last season.
The 52-year-old revealed that he resigned to spend more time with his young family.
But Conte admitted that Emenalo's decision still came as a huge surprise to him, and conceded it was a "loss" because of how he helped him settle into the club when he arrived in the summer of 2016.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, Conte said: "For sure, this is a loss, a big loss for us.
"With Michael, our relationship was very good. He helped me a lot last season, and also this season. It was a surprise for me, his resignation from his job.
"At the same time I think that we have to respect his decision, his professional decision. And I wish for him and his family the best, the best for the present and the future."
