Napoli To Make Decision Over Antonio Conte As Partenopei’s Poor Form Continues

Antonio Conte could be relieved of his duties at Napoli in 2026 after the Partenopei’s 1-0 defeat by Udinese in Serie A. 

Napoli Consider Antonio Conte Sack

The Serie A Champions made it two consecutive defeats across all competitions on December 14th, meaning Conte’s position in Naples has taken another blow.

Napoli failed to register a single shot on target during their 1-0 defeat by Udinese, with Jurgen Ekkelenkamp scoring the winner for the hosts.

Udinese saw two efforts be disallowed by VAR, as Kosta Runjaic’s side put in a dominant display over the Scudetto holders and added to the Partenopei’s woes following a Champions League defeat by Benfica on December 10th.

Suffering consecutive defeats will raise alarm bells in the Napoli camp, especially with the upcoming January transfer window – as Conte looks to bolster his roster.

The Italian giants have been dealing with a major injury crisis in midfield, with Kevin De Bruyne, Billy Gilmour and Frank Anguissa all ruled out until 2026.

Napoli have been linked with multiple midfielders, as Kobbie Mainoo is very tempted by a move to Serie A, however, Aurelio De Laurentiis may hold back from investing more money under Conte.

The Partenopei boss has two more chances to turn his side’s form around in 2026, as Napoli face AC Milan in Saudi Arabia for the Supercoppa Italian trophy – before ending the year against Cremonese in Serie A.

Conte has responded to rumors over a Napoli exit, as the Italian revealed that this season ‘won’t be easy’ and believes he will be given time to improve.

Conte said: “This year won’t be easy for us. The important thing is to be united and compact, facing challenges while sticking together. The whole club needs to stand together, this year won’t be easy.

“We want to work and fight. We’ve lost seven away games, we have to improve that a bit.”

Serie A Champions Target Premier League Manager

Although the Napoli boss has tried to galvanize his side following the defeat by Udinese, the champions still have some major issues to address.

Summer signing, Rasmus Hojlund, was heavily criticized for his display in Udine and supporters are starting to question Conte’s decision to play the Dane.

To add further pressure on Conte, Napoli have reportedly identified a possible replacement for the Italian and could make a move in the early stages of 2026.

The Serie A Champions are said to be huge admirers of Chelsea manager, Enzo Maresca, as the Italian continues to show signs of promise in England.

Maresca enjoyed a strong season during his opening year in charge at Chelsea, winning the Europa Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup – whilst qualifying for the Champions League.

The 2025/26 season has been another strong period for the Italian, sitting fourth in the Premier League after 16 matches, however the Blues failed to win in four consecutive matches between November 30th – December 13th.

Maresca managed to end this run in Chelsea’s latest league encounter, which could prove significant given the Premier League side’s record with managers.

The 45-year-old still has four-years on his deal at Stamford Bridge, but Napoli are willing to pay the necessary fees to end his contract with the Blues.