Journalist Riccardo Cucchi, speaking on Radio Punto Nuovo, shared his thoughts on the Scudetto race and the future of manager Antonio Conte.
Cucchi noted that Inter has “lost certainties.” He observed a team that appears “a bit lost” and is “showing signs of collapse,” which was fully evident in their match against Milan. He stated that Napoli is now called upon to take advantage of this situation, expressing doubt about whether Inter possesses the “freshness and physical resources” required to recover before the season concludes. Cucchi described the current moment as “very delicate,” with the Nerazzurri facing a “dangerously high price.” He anticipates a reaction from Inter in their next match, suggesting it`s unlikely they will lose a third consecutive game. He added that Napoli currently seems to hold an advantage from a calendar perspective. Cucchi concluded this point by saying it`s difficult to make a prediction right now, as “everything remains completely open.”
Discussing upcoming matches, Cucchi described Torino as “always a difficult team to beat.” He pointed out that Napoli has some absences and will need to “withstand the impact” of a Torino side currently playing “without worries or pressure.” He assessed that, objectively, Napoli is the stronger side despite missing some key players.
Regarding Antonio Conte`s future, Cucchi remarked that “uncertainty is part of the character.” He recalled how Conte, “at Juventus and Inter, spurred the presidents on as the days passed.” Cucchi characterized him as someone who “demands a lot from himself and those around him.” He explained that Conte “raises his voice” because he is “asked to win,” although he felt the manager`s “Neapolitan version was much milder than past ones.” However, Cucchi noted that Conte`s personality ultimately emerges, leading to complaints about the transfer market and training facilities. For Conte, Cucchi asserted, “winning is what matters; the style of play is secondary.” Despite everything, Cucchi believes Conte deserves “applause for fighting for the Scudetto with a team not quite at Inter`s level, at least in this phase of the season.”