Napoli`s 1-0 victory over Monza, secured by McTominay`s goal, allowed them to join Inter at the top of the league table with 71 points. However, the victory was overshadowed by Antonio Conte`s explosive statements in the post-match press conference.
According to reports, Conte`s words suggest a potential break, raising serious questions about his future as Napoli`s coach. He had already hinted before the match that in his eight months at the club, he realized certain things were not possible. Yesterday, he intensified his concerns, stating: “At the beginning of the year, who would have thought Napoli would be fighting with Inter for the top spot? They probably would have been considered crazy. But this should make us understand that we are truly exceeding all limits. And every Sunday, we add difficulty upon difficulty, like the recent injury to Neres. Juan Jesus finished the season, perfectly replacing Buongiorno.”
Conte continued, “For the rest, I am happy in Naples, and my family and I have integrated very well. There is sun, the food is excellent, the people are welcoming, and the Neapolitan fans excite me. This is in terms of private life. But I cannot stop there. I carry a responsibility, and you are the first to give it to me by saying that if Conte is there, you win. Since you give me responsibility, I do not want to disappoint the fans. I cannot live on miracles and not on planning. I have esteem and affection for the president. They asked me for help, and I am giving it, but the Neapolitan fan wants to win and has this ambition.”
Regarding his relationship with De Laurentiis, Conte mentioned, “I have an excellent relationship with De Laurentiis, but respect is also needed towards me. Yesterday, I saw hyena-like behavior and zero respect. I don`t care about myself, but the media frenzy disappointed me. I need to protect myself, otherwise, this journey together will have been great, but short. I do it for the Napoli fans and also for myself. I won`t put myself in a position to be abused.”
Separately, there were comments about Juventus, mentioning “Tudor`s pride!” regarding the Bianconeri.