Antonio Conte’s Chelsea future has been rocked by the exit of major ally Michael Emenalo

ANTONIO CONTE’S future has been rocked by the exit of Chelsea chief Michael Emenalo.

Roman Abramovich’s right-hand man was a major ally of under-fire Conte.

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SunSport understands Emenalo was at loggerheads with chief executive Marina Granovskaia over the manager’s Stamford Bridge tenure.

And Conte admitted he was “very sorry” to see him go.

Chelsea announced technical director Emenalo’s surprise resignation last night after ten years at the club.

But senior club sources were not shocked by his exit amid growing boardroom tension over their transfer policy and Conte’s style of management.

PA:Empics Sport

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Who is Michael Emenalo? The man who rose to power at the Bridge

Age: 52

Born: Nigeria

Career: Professional footballer, Chelsea assistant manager, Chelsea technical director.

Playing position: Defender

Clubs: Enugu Rangers (1988), Boston University (1986-89), Molenbeek (1989-93), Eintracht Trier (1993-94), Notts County (1994-95), San Jose Clash (1996-97), Lleida (1992-98), Maccabi Tel Aviv (1998-2000).

Nigeria caps: 13

Emenalo identified the Italian to take up the post 18 months ago after the sacking of Jose Mourinho.

He has also overseen the majority of the club’s sales and recruitment over the past six years.

‘UNDERRATED’ Chelsea fans show mixed reactions on Twitter to Michael Emenalo leaving Stamford Bridge

Emenalo said: “This has been a very difficult decision to make but one I believe is right for both me and family, and the club.

“I had the privilege to work with some of the most talented people in the world of sport.

“And I’ll depart incredibly proud of the achievements we made.”