Conte "gives up the choice"? Absence from training triggers controversy over Napoli s coaching position

Naples, the defending Serie A champion, is in deep turmoil during the season. Recently, coach Conte announced that he would temporarily withdraw from training due to the team's continued downturn and emotional outburst - he will not lead the team in training and will not return to the training ground until November 17 (Monday).

During this period, assistant coach Christian Stellini will temporarily take over the first team training tasks. The club responded quickly, emphasizing that this arrangement was the result of "conte's prior communication and agreement with the club" and was not a sudden conflict or unilateral decision.

The decline in record ignited the fuse

Last weekend, Naples lost 0-2 to Bologna in an away game, suffering its fifth defeat in the past five games in all competitions and failing to score in three consecutive games. After the game, Conte, who is always known for his passion, made a rare public attack on the team.

In an interview with DAZN, he said bluntly: "Three or four months have passed, and we still lack cohesion and can't see the desire to fight together. I don't know if I can change the status quo. I don't want to continue with a 'dead' team. Everyone must be responsible for such a performance - including myself."

He further reflected: "We always thought that change would happen overnight. The past honors are certainly worth remembering, but now we must re-examine the direction: Are we still on the right track? Can I still maintain the same fighting spirit as last season?"

What worries the fans even more is that I am disappointed with the disappearance of the energy in the players."

Is the coaching crisis about to happen?

These fierce remarks immediately triggered speculation about Conte’s coaching position. Matteo Moretto, a well-known Italian journalist, revealed that Conte has agreed to meet with club president Aurelio De Laurentiis. "The two sides will discuss the current predicament in depth and decide whether to continue cooperation," adding that the meeting will "comprehensively review the issues that have arisen at this sensitive stage."

However, the controversy was quickly suppressed by the chairman himself. De Laurentiis quickly refuted the rumors: "I saw news that Conte is resigning. This is completely untrue! I have a very good relationship with him."

He shouted to the fans more passionately: "You have heard a lot of unconfirmed news recently. But I want to say that I am extremely proud to fight alongside a real man like Antonio Conte. . He devoted all his efforts to Naples - working hard and going all out. This is the strongest commitment he can give to the club, the players, and the fans of this city!"

There is still hope for the title defense

Currently, Naples is currently ranked 4th in the Serie A standings. Although it is behind the top, the championship situation is not out of control. The key is whether the team can get out of the trough as soon as possible under the leadership of Conte and regain the fighting spirit and tactical discipline of last season.

This "absence from training" incident may be just an extreme measure by Conte to try to wake up the whole team.