Antonio Conte during a match, typically a man of intense focus.
The San Siro Setback: More Than Just a Scoreline
The fixture at San Siro presented a stern test for Napoli, and indeed, they succumbed to a two-goal deficit. Conceding early, as Conte highlighted, is rarely a recipe for success, especially away at a formidable opponent like AC Milan. However, for a coach whose philosophy is often rooted in rigid structure and defensive solidity, his subsequent commentary pivoted sharply from the immediate result to the underlying performance metrics.
«It`s a shame we conceded a goal so quickly; we could have done better as a team. There are always situations to improve upon, and going behind so early at San Siro wasn`t simple. However, I liked the team for how they played, even in the first half we pressed Milan very high and created goal-scoring opportunities.»
This isn`t merely a coach attempting to sugarcoat a loss. Conte`s focus on the high press and the creation of opportunities speaks volumes. It suggests that, despite the scoreboard, his team executed aspects of his tactical plan effectively, demonstrating the intent and intensity he demands. In the grand scheme of a season, process often trumps immediate outcome, particularly for a coach building a new foundation.
Addressing the Defensive Dilemma: A Collective Responsibility
One of the more pointed questions directed at Conte revolved around Napoli`s perceived fragility, particularly defensively. His response was typical Conte: direct and emphasizing collective responsibility. While acknowledging a recent uptick in goals conceded – a statistical anomaly for any Conte-led side – he contextualized the Milan defeat as the first in five matches, and against a top-tier opponent at that. He eloquently reminded everyone that football is a two-way street.
«We attack and defend all together,» Conte reiterated, stressing the need for greater attention and concentration from every player. The 2-0 scoreline, while challenging, didn`t deter Napoli from creating further situations, albeit without the crucial finishing touch. It`s a pragmatic view: mistakes happen, but a unified approach to rectifying them is paramount.
Strategic Player Choices and The Path of Development
The discussion also delved into specific player selections, notably the inclusion of Luca Marianucci over Beukema. Conte`s explanation was clear: Marianucci, a player purchased by Napoli and part of the squad, had earned his chance through diligent training. This decision underscores Conte`s belief in meritocracy and the importance of developing young talent through actual game time, a critical aspect given the rigors of a multi-competition season.
The squad`s current predicament, facing injuries and suspensions (mentioning Di Lorenzo, Spinazzola, Olivera, and the critical need for Beukema and Juan Jesus to remain fit), forces Conte to make careful evaluations. This situation, however, also presents an opportunity. As he noted, the growth of the team often hinges on the development of these younger players, especially when they step up in the absence of regulars. Marianucci`s performance, according to Conte, will undoubtedly aid his progression.
Tactical Adjustments and Future Outlook
Even the tactical substitutions made during the match – bringing in fresh players for one-on-one situations as Milan consolidated their defense – were justified by Conte as a logical attempt to alter the game`s flow. It`s a chess match, and every move, even those that don`t immediately yield a checkmate, is part of a broader strategy.
Ultimately, Conte’s post-match calm, while perhaps unexpected given his usual intensity, offers a compelling glimpse into his coaching philosophy. It`s a reminder that football, especially at the highest level, is a continuous process of analysis, adaptation, and development. The defeat to Milan, while a setback on paper, appears to be viewed by Conte not as a definitive failure, but as another valuable chapter in Napoli`s ongoing journey under his meticulous guidance. The performance, not just the result, provided «good sensations» that will fuel the relentless pursuit of improvement.