Napoli manager Antonio Conte has slammed his side’s form this season following the defeat to Bologna, and singled out forward Rasmus Hejlund’s performance in a goalless weekend.
Manager Antonio Conte slammed his Napoli side after the defeat to Bologna, but after watching his side’s 2-0 defeat in Serie A, he singled out forward Rasmus Hejlund, who is on loan at Manchester United, for praise.
Bologna’s Theis Dalinga and John Lucumi earned three points, but they remain just one point behind Napoli in fourth place in the league. The Italian champions are still two points adrift of the top flight, but have already recorded three defeats in this division, one less than their total loss last season.
The 56-year-old Conte has been unhappy with Napoli this season, slamming his team’s lack of motivation and chemistry, but also acknowledging his contribution to the team’s struggles.
“We needed more energy in everything. The unfortunate thing is that they showed more aggressiveness and desire than we did,” he told DAZN.
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“This should make us reflect. This is the fifth defeat we suffered at the beginning of the year. It means we need to reflect and we have already done so.”
“It’s been three or four months and we don’t have any chemistry and no desire to fight together. I don’t know if we can change the situation,” he continued. “I don’t want to be with the person who died, everyone has to take responsibility.
“The first person to be held accountable is me. A heart transplant is not an option. Each of us needs to rediscover our spirit and our mettle.
“We often think that change happens overnight. What we have done should not be forgotten, but we need to keep trying. We have to ask ourselves if we are doing it the right way and with the same sense of revenge as last season. I’m disappointed because the players can’t find the energy again. That means I’m not doing a good job.”
Hoylund has scored four goals in 10 games, but failed to get on the scoresheet against Bologna. However, manager Conte had kind words for the striker.
“To be honest, I didn’t care,” Conte said. “He was probably the best player on the pitch for me. He defended himself and attacked deep. Rukumi had a hard time controlling him.
“Then if you end the game whether he scores or not, it’s a different story. We prepared for some things. We should have supported him more. Rasmus handled some balls, but we weren’t strong enough. I thought his game was good.”
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