After Napoli's 2-1 victory over Lecce, Italy coach Antonio Conte analyzed the match to DAZN, focusing in particular on the management of the players returning from long-term injuries.
"We're recovering players who have been out for several months," the coach explained, "and we can't expect them to immediately return in top form." Conte also cited the initial decision to field André-Frank Zambo Anguissa, who was then substituted during the match.
"Today I decided to start with Anguissa, but when we were down I made a substitution. It's normal: those who come back need time to get used to the intensity again."
“The kids have to trust my gut feeling.”
In his speech, Conte emphasized the role of technical decisions in managing the team.
"The boys need to trust my gut feeling. I take responsibility for my decisions, but everyone must work for the common good, which is Napoli."
The coach then reiterated the season's priority: "We must think about qualifying for the Champions League."
Satisfaction with the average points
Conte also commented on the numbers from his tenure as Napoli's manager.
"I'm not one to look at statistics much; I prefer to focus on my day-to-day work. But finding out I have a 2,21 points average can only make me happy."
The moment of fear for Banda
Towards the end of the match, there was a moment of great concern regarding the condition of Lecce striker Lameck Banda.
“I was preparing the wall for a free kick when I saw him collapse,” Conte said. “I was worried when I noticed his hand on his chest, and I rushed onto the pitch to call for help.”
The coach concluded with a wish: “I hope he is well now and can recover as soon as possible.”
The match was strange. Conte said that returns take time and patience, but the players returned unconditionally. Anguissa started and was then removed. Maybe the changes were right or wrong, I don't know. It's a worrying moment for Banda. I hope he's okay. The team needs to be more focused and patient.