Udinese secured a 1-0 victory thanks to Jurgen Ekkelenkamp’s strike, a result that handed Napoli their seventh loss on the road this campaign. The setback leaves the reigning champions in third position, with the possibility of dropping two points behind the league leaders by the end of the weekend.
Udinese secured a 1-0 victory thanks to Jurgen Ekkelenkamp’s strike, a result that handed Napoli their seventh loss on the road this campaign. The setback leaves the reigning champions in third position, with the possibility of dropping two points behind the league leaders by the end of the weekend.
Reflecting on the performance in his post-match interview with DAZN, Conte explained that his team had been solid before half-time, limiting the hosts’ attacking threat and creating chances of their own. However, the coach felt the tone shifted early in the second period, when tension began to influence decision-making. Despite seeing two efforts ruled out and hitting the woodwork soon after the restart, Napoli struggled to regain control and eventually paid the price.
Napoli’s recent run has been complicated by a lengthy injury list. Kevin De Bruyne, Stanislav Lobotka, Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa, Billy Gilmour, Romelu Lukaku, Juan Jesus and Alex Meret have all missed time in recent weeks or months, reducing Conte’s options.
As a result, the coach has relied on the same starting lineup for three matches in seven days, with Sunday’s only change seeing Leonardo Spinazzola replaced by Mathias Olivera. Conte stressed that he has no criticism of the players available, praising their commitment during what he described as an emergency situation, while underlining the need for greater composure and personality, particularly away from home.
Conte also addressed concerns about whether injuries could undermine Napoli’s ambitions. He revealed that he had already raised warnings earlier in the season, noting the difficulties of competing on multiple fronts without full resources.
According to the coach, the campaign will present ongoing challenges, making unity within the squad and the wider club essential. He emphasized the importance of sticking together, continuing to work, and fighting through adversity. While accepting that this season will not be straightforward, Conte reiterated that improvement is required, especially in away fixtures, if Napoli are to remain competitive.
