Stanislav Lobotka’s agent backtracked on comments suggesting the midfielder might seek a Napoli exit, claiming his remarks about Antonio Conte’s demands were a joke.
According to a report from Football Italia, Stanislav Lobotka’s representative, Branislav Jasurek, has amplified tensions at Napoli by signalling the Slovak international’s potential departure if Antonio Conte remains at the helm. Jasurek stated:
“If Stano wins a third title at Napoli, it will certainly be easier for him to leave,” and added:
“It’s true he has an improved contract, but he is already 30 years old, and it will be almost unrealistic to physically endure working under Conte for much longer.”
The comments arrive during a faltering season for the reigning Serie A champions, following a 2‑0 defeat to Bologna and broader concerns about squad hunger and performance.
Jasurek also criticised the club’s workload management, suggesting Lobotka faced “three difficult matches in eight days before international duty” and ought to have had rest.
In a follow‑up, the agent tried to soften the public fallout by clarifying earlier remarks:
“I was very surprised, because the phrases were taken completely out of context… It is true that I said it was tough to work with Antonio Conte because he is a very demanding coach, but I added it was positive because he is a winner.”
Nonetheless, the dual statements — one threatening departure, the other reaffirming loyalty — leave Napoli management and fans with a muddled message about one of the club’s midfield linchpins and raise fresh questions over his future beyond the 2025‑26 campaign.