Napoli manager Antonio Conte has sounded the alarm over a “real emergency” at the club after a demoralizing 3-0 loss to Juventus left the defending champions nine points adrift of Serie A leaders Inter.
The defeat was compounded by a deepening injury crisis that has sidelined stars like Kevin De Bruyne, David Neres, and Frank Anguissa, with Conte revealing post-match that even his first-choice goalkeeper has joined a list of long-term absentees.
Despite the looming threat of a Champions League exit as they prepare to face Chelsea in 25th place, Conte refused to blame his depleted squad, stating,
“The boat is in the middle of the sea with very high waves and it’s dangerous, but no one wants to disembark. It’s a question of honour, of men even before sportsmen.”
With no players expected to return for the midweek European clash or the upcoming league fixture against Fiorentina, Conte lamented the grim outlook, noting that “those who were supposed to be back have extended their time.”