According to reports, Napoli faced bottom-placed Monza at the U-Power Stadium in an attempt to secure another win. Despite struggling for much of the game, Scott McTominay broke the deadlock with a header, securing a 1-0 victory—his sixth decisive goal this season.

Conte said in the post-match interview: “We had a game plan to control the match with two playmakers from the start. We succeeded to some extent, but not enough players were entering the box, so we had chances but needed to work harder.”

This result keeps pressure on Inter, as Napoli is currently level on points with them at the top of the table, awaiting Inter’s Sunday match against Bologna.

Giacomo Raspadori’s introduction was pivotal against Monza, allowing Leonardo Spinazzola to return to his preferred left-back position. Davide Neres, Juan Jesus, and Alessandro Buongiorno were absent due to injuries.

Conte continued: “The game changed when we brought on Anguissa and then Raspadori. These are games that look easy on paper, but the stakes are high, and you feel the pressure. Many of these players might be in a title race for the first time. Being at the top is extraordinary and unexpected. These players deserve credit, and I’m happy with what they’re doing—and that we’re still causing trouble for Inter.”

Conte’s Anger at De Laurentiis

Before the match, Conte caused controversy by criticizing the club’s transfer strategy and squad depth, stating, “Some things can’t be done at Napoli.”

He continued his criticism post-match, openly expressing frustration with De Laurentiis: “I’ve settled well in Naples, my family is happy too. The weather is great, the food is excellent, and the fans treat you like one of their own. But people want to win trophies—they have ambition. We must face reality.”

“I’m flexible because I’m happy here, and the fans’ emotional reaction means a lot to me. But whoever hires me knows my expectations. If I don’t see the necessary resources, I’m not foolish—I’ll say staying isn’t guaranteed.”

When asked about Davide Neres’ injury, it became clear this was the main reason for his anger at De Laurentiis.

Conte angrily said: “Neres felt pain in his soleus muscle. We’ve had many similar injuries lately—maybe due to the training pitches at Castel Volturno. They were supposed to be replaced, but they’re still the same. We must stay silent and carry on. If we can change the pitches, we’ll be even happier.”