After much anticipation, reality has struck for Antonio Conte and Napoli. Initially optimistic about his squad’s potential, Conte has taken a hard look at his players during training camp and, alongside a sluggish transfer market, has begun signaling to the environment and the club about the significant work needed both on and off the pitch. As the days have gone by, the tone has shifted from hopeful to increasingly concerning. Following a disappointing penalty shootout exit from the Coppa Italia against Modena, Conte expressed his dismay with comments like “I expected a better situation” and warned, “Last year’s tenth place finish wasn’t just bad luck.”
Ahead of the match in Verona, he lamented, “We are very close to starting from zero.” Meanwhile, the ongoing Victor Osimhen saga has stymied incoming transfers, leaving Conte to reject last year’s disappointing signings, which have been sent out on loan without providing substantial funds. He had sensed trouble, fearing rain in Verona, but was unprepared for what would turn into a downpour, as his team suffered a humiliating 3-0 defeat. In the aftermath, Conte issued multiple apologies to the fans, taking full responsibility and expressing shame over what he deemed an “unacceptable” performance.
His analysis was brutally honest: “We melted like snow in the sun; this team cannot respond to challenges.” Reflecting on his unblemished record in opening matches in Serie A, he noted, “My heart bleeds.” Those familiar with Conte are aware that this setback will only fuel his fierce commitment. However, what should worry the club and its supporters even more is that his critique reveals deeper, long-standing issues beyond just a missing striker.
Conte characterized the Scudetto triumph two years ago as a “trap” and suggested it might be time to put that achievement in the past. He is correct in pointing out that the current squad, in both quality and depth, is not up to par with those competing for the title. The bench during the match in Verona was filled with youth players and lacked the depth previously provided by second-string players who have since departed. Significant reinforcements are needed, but with Osimhen potentially staying, the questions remain unanswered.
However, even acknowledging the limitations of an incomplete and perhaps overestimated squad, nothing justifies such a heavy defeat nor the manner in which it unfolded. To exclude Conte from the list of those accountable would be to undervalue his impact. The work done over the summer seemed to evaporate in a second half that showcased the team’s flaws, particularly when compared to their opponents, who were bolstered by players like Livramento and Mosquera—unknowns until now who delivered a fierce performance.
Kudos go to director of sport Sogliano for discovering these hidden gems and coach Zanetti for preparing his team meticulously, leading to a historic and well-deserved victory. Napoli’s struggles, begun last season, continue without end in sight.
Meanwhile, in Rome, discussions have lately been dominated by the Paulo Dybala situation rather than the upcoming match against Cagliari, where what some assumed would be an easy win turned into a reality check as the game ended in a fair draw. The first half was slow and uneventful, with the second showing more life and opportunities for both sides. Among the new additions for Roma, Soulè stood out, while Le Fee lagged behind, and Dovbyk nearly scored, suggesting he could find the back of the net frequently.
It’s clear, however, that the team lacks key elements that De Rossi has requested for months: a winger capable of beating defenders, a strong box-to-box midfielder who can create bursts of play, and a quality, dynamic full-back. Without players possessing these attributes, Roma risks remaining a stagnant, slow-paced team, irrespective of Dybala’s presence. They can manage without his expensive talent and fragile physique, but only if stronger players arrive to fill the gaps in the squad’s profile.
Lazio, on the other hand, found a way to win after going behind, showcasing an effective partnership formed without the shadow of Immobile. Bologna, now missing its best players from last season, struggled to finish and ended up drawing against Udinese. It’s vital for the Bologna fans that last season’s remarkable performance doesn’t become a heavy benchmark that leads to disappointment this time around.