Napoli coach Antonio Conte seems to have taken a subtle jab at former Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim.
Conte made these comments while defending Rasmus Hojlund, the former United striker who has been performing well since joining Napoli.
Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images
Conte questions Amorim’s coaching methods
In a pre-match press conference, Conte defended Hojlund while criticizing Amorim’s coaching techniques during their time at Manchester United.
Hojlund has not scored in four Serie A matches, and when asked about this, Conte responded:
“Some young coaches today are arrogant and unwilling to adapt. When a young striker struggles, instead of coaching him, they point fingers at him.”
“They always complain and blame others, as everything is given to them easily.”
Conte’s remarks were seen by many as a reference to Amorim, whose time at United ended with criticism for not adapting his tactics.
The Portuguese coach reportedly had conflicts with the club’s management due to his insistence on a back-five system, which many believed was limiting the team’s performance.
Conte supports Hojlund ahead of key match
Conte’s comments also appeared to back Hojlund, who has scored six goals and provided two assists in 16 league matches this season, outperforming his record from last season under Amorim.
Currently, Napoli sits third in Serie A, six points behind the leaders, and Conte’s 40 points marks his lowest tally at this stage in Italy’s top division. His remarks may reflect both frustration and determination to support his striker amid rising scrutiny.
Regardless of whether Conte’s comments were a direct shot at Amorim, their timing and tone were significant. He will be looking for Hojlund to deliver when Napoli faces Sassuolo this weekend.
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