Napoli manager Antonio Conte unleashed a devastating critique of his team and his own performance following their disappointing 2-0 defeat to Bologna in Serie A on November 10, 2025.
The reigning champions suffered their third league loss of the season thanks to goals from Thijs Dallinga and Jhon Lucumi, leaving them fourth in the table, though just two points behind leaders Inter Milan.
Conte's Brutal Self-Assessment
Conte did not mince words in his post-match analysis, expressing deep concern about his team's lack of energy and fighting spirit. 'We needed more energy in everything. What's disappointing is that they showed more positivity and desire than us,' the former Chelsea and Tottenham boss told DAZN.
The Italian manager revealed this marked Napoli's fifth defeat across all competitions this season, prompting serious reflection within the camp. 'It means we need to reflect, which we've already done,' Conte added, suggesting the problems run deeper than just one poor performance.
Summer Signings Creating Chemistry Issues
Conte had previously voiced concerns about Napoli's transfer activity following their title-winning campaign, and those worries appear to have materialised. He told Sky in October that nine new signings were 'too many' but necessary given their expanded fixture list.
'Last year we won the league with just a few players. They outdid themselves by being compact and staying united as a team,' Conte explained, highlighting the contrast with their current disjointed performances.
'I'm Not Doing a Good Job'
In a remarkably candid admission, the 56-year-old manager shouldered significant blame for Napoli's struggles. 'Three or four months have passed and there's no chemistry, no desire to fight together,' Conte lamented after the Bologna loss.
He delivered one of his most concerning assessments yet: 'I don't know if we'll be able to change the situation.' Conte emphasised that heart transplants weren't an option, metaphorically suggesting his players needed to rediscover their fighting spirit internally.
In a stark confession about his own performance, Conte stated: 'I'm disappointed because I'm not finding the energy in the guys again; it means I'm not doing a good job.'
Hojlund Emerges as Lone Bright Spot
Amid the widespread criticism, on-loan Manchester United forward Rasmus Hojlund received rare praise from his manager. Despite Napoli extending their goal drought to three matches, Conte singled out the Danish international for his performance.
'I didn't mind Hojlund today, perhaps the best player on the pitch,' Conte declared. 'He attacked the depth and held his own, but if the performance is judged solely on goals, it becomes relative.'
The manager acknowledged that the 22-year-old had received insufficient support from his teammates, noting: 'We had prepared a few things, we should have supported him more.' Conte specifically mentioned that Lucumi struggled to contain Hojlund throughout the match.
Hojlund has scored four goals in nine appearances since joining Napoli on loan from Manchester United, though he's now gone four matches without finding the net.
The defeat highlights Napoli's growing dependence on injured striker Romelu Lukaku, whose absence appears to be significantly impacting their attacking output as they struggle to maintain their title defence.
