In a recent press conference ahead of Napoli’s Coppa Italia match against Lazio, manager Antonio Conte addressed comments made by Inter president Beppe Marotta regarding the Serie A title race. Conte, known for his fiery demeanor, didn’t hold back in his response.
“The director can say what he wants,” Conte began, referring to Marotta. “Knowing him, I don’t think he would be very happy if Inter didn’t win the Scudetto. He wouldn’t consider it a good season.”
Conte suggested that Marotta’s comments were part of a strategy, possibly encouraged by others within the club. “Everyone has to play their part. Maybe someone inside pushed him to say something like this,” he remarked. “But we’re talking about a team, Inter, that doesn’t have two squads, but two and three-quarters squads. They’re focusing a lot on us and perhaps not seeing who can really cause them trouble.”
The Napoli boss expressed his conviction that Marotta’s words were merely posturing. “I’m super-convinced that if they don’t win it, Marotta wouldn’t be very happy, and many would have to ask themselves questions,” Conte stated.
Addressing the broader context of the title race, Conte emphasized the importance of internal objectives over public declarations. “Every club starts the year with goals. We can declare what we want, but in the end, internally, everyone knows if the objectives have been achieved or not,” he explained.
Conte also touched on Napoli’s approach to the Coppa Italia, highlighting its significance for player development and team growth. “Our goal is to build something, to grow. To do this, we need to play as much as possible,” he said. “Going forward in the Coppa Italia means having more space and opportunities to demonstrate that we are making improvements.”
The manager expressed his satisfaction with the team’s progress so far, noting the lack of injuries and the opportunity to evaluate players. “It’s an important moment for evaluations. We approach the game with commitment and determination,” Conte affirmed.
In closing, Conte emphasized the need for realistic ambitions and solid foundations. “You talk about winning very easily here. It’s a habit,” he observed. “We need to build victories, otherwise you don’t go anywhere. The objective is to construct something solid to have a group with the realistic ambition to be up there with the others. Not as dreamers, but in reality.”
