The start of the new season has been nothing short of disastrous for Napoli fans. The warning signs were there from the beginning, with a nail-biting penalty shoot-out victory against Modena in the Coppa Italia just a week ago. The situation deteriorated further with a humiliating 3-0 defeat at the Bentegodi against Verona, prompting manager Antonio Conte to publicly apologise to the supporters. This rocky start has already sparked concerns about internal strife within the club.
Attitude Problems
Calciomercato write how it was clear from the end of last season that significant work was needed to improve the team’s mentality. This is precisely why Conte, known for his motivational skills and iron-fisted approach, was brought in. However, his pre-match press conference before the Verona game revealed doubts about the team’s readiness. The poor performance that followed exposed the team’s greatest weakness, as Conte himself pointed out: “At the first sign of difficulty, we showed no reaction. A strong team reacts and holds firm. We melted like snow in the sun.”
On-Field Issues
The 3-0 loss to Verona exposed multiple weaknesses in Napoli’s squad. Despite a promising first half where Kvaratskhelia and his teammates controlled possession and created chances, the team’s familiar collapse soon followed. The attacking trio of Raspadori, Simeone, and Cheddira failed to make an impact, while defensive errors from Rrahmani, Juan Jesus, and Olivera proved costly. The wingbacks, Mazzocchi and Spinazzola, were largely ineffective.
Transfer Market Woes
While Conte has emphasized that the team’s problems run deeper than just personnel, the current squad depth is a concern. Several players who could have provided additional options, such as Folorunsho, Gaetano, Mario Rui, and Rafa Marín, have been sidelined due to transfer speculation. The absence of star striker Osimhen, who is registered but unavailable, further compounds the issue.
Looking Ahead
As Napoli prepare to welcome new signing Neres, who is set for a medical, there’s a growing urgency to strengthen the midfield. Names like Billy Gilmour and Scott McTominay are being strongly linked, but swift action is needed to have reinforcements available as soon as possible.
The relationship between Conte and Napoli has hit early turbulence, but like all partnerships, solutions may be just around the corner. Only time will tell if this marriage can overcome its initial hurdles and lead Napoli back to success.
