Antonio Conte Takes Controversial Vacation Amidst Tensions

Antonio Conte has left Naples for Turin to take a short, pre-planned break. This three-day leave follows a long-standing schedule with the club but has sparked discussions after the team’s recent 2-0 defeat against Bologna and his outburst in the locker room. President Aurelio De Laurentiis had to step in publicly to quash rumors of a potential resignation. While Conte is expected to return on November 17, his assistant, Cristian Stellini, will be leading training sessions at Castel Volturno. The Napoli coach aims to recharge with his family and alleviate the frustrations stemming from a somewhat inconsistent start to the season, where Napoli is currently placed 4th in Serie A.

Upon his return, Conte will have a clear objective: to revitalize the squad that is currently lacking confidence. The upcoming schedule is challenging, featuring matches against Atalanta, Roma, and Juventus, along with clashes in the Champions League against Qarabag and Benfica, and a tie in the Coppa Italia against Cagliari. Supported by management, the 56-year-old Italian coach will need to regroup his players and regain the collective intensity that characterized Napoli’s strong performance last season.