Antonio Conte has admitted that he is relishing the chance to take Chelsea back to the summit of the Premier League in his first season at the helm.
The 46-year-old takes over from interim boss Guus Hiddink at Stamford Bridge following last term's disastrous Premier League title defence which saw the Blues finish down in 10th place.
Following his exploits with Italy at Euro 2016 this summer, earning him some rave reviews for his tactical flexibility to overcome the likes of Belgium and Spain, Conte is now ready to get going in his first spell outside of the Italian game.
"Last season in 10th was a bad season, but we must think to the present. Chelsea belongs in the Champions League and we must stay there," he told reporters.
"It is a great pleasure for me. I am excited for this moment. This is a new chapter for my life, for my career, for my family and I am very happy to start working in a fantastic new country and fantastic league."
Conte expects as many as seven teams to challenge for the title next season, but insists that he is not fazed by the pressure placed on him by owner Roman Abramovich to hit the ground running.
"The Premier League is very difficult - the most difficult in the world. Seven teams can win the title," he added. "The pressure for me is not important, I was born with pressure. It's normal.
"You must play to win, to win the title, to reach your targets. This league is difficult and this year won't be easy but this situation excites me. We must work every day, every week, because the fans need to find the team ready to fight."
As well as managing the Italian national side for the past two years, Conte has also previously taken charge of Juventus, Sienna, Atalanta, Bari and Arezzo across a 10-year managerial career.
Daniel Lewis
