Napoli's head coach, Antonio Conte, expressed concerns about his team's motivation and mindset following their 2-0 loss to Bologna. Thijs Dallinga and Jhon Lucumi scored in the second half at Stadio Renato
Dall'Ara, dropping Napoli to third place in Serie A. This defeat marked their third league loss this season and fifth overall, with Napoli failing to score in three consecutive matches for the first time since late 2023.
Conte did not hold back in his post-match analysis. "I am worried, I cannot deny it," he told DAZN Italia. He questioned how a team expected to lead could lose five games across competitions by this point. Conte highlighted that after winning the Scudetto last season, Napoli has struggled to maintain momentum. He noted a change in energy compared to last year and admitted his inability to restore it over the past four months.
Napoli's attack has faced criticism recently, as they ended Sunday's match with fewer than five total shots for the first time since February 2021 against Atalanta. Conte acknowledged this issue, stating that either he's not doing his job well or someone isn't listening. The coach emphasized the importance of maintaining last season's positive energy and determination.
Conte also praised Bologna's intensity and drive, contrasting it with Napoli's performance. He noted Bologna's hunger and enthusiasm despite playing on Thursday. "Bologna were certainly more energetic in every way," he said. Conte found it disappointing that his team lacked similar enthusiasm and energy during the match.
Full time: #BolognaNapoli 2-0 #ForzaNapoliSempre pic.twitter.com/uED1R48oru
- Official SSC Napoli (@sscnapoli) November 9, 2025
Reflecting on last season's success, Conte questioned if his players still possess the same drive that led them to triumph in Serie A. "What we did last season was absolutely extraordinary," he remarked. He urged the team to evaluate whether they are working with the same passion as before or resting on past achievements due to being labelled favourites.
The coach stressed that Napoli needs a different level of energy from what he's observed since the start of this season. Despite their recent struggles, Conte remains focused on addressing these issues within his squad.
