One other star has fallen out with Antonio Conte after Kevin De Bruyne. Napoli’s Champions League collapse in Eindhoven didn’t solely go away the Italian champions bruised on the scoreboard — it additionally uncovered cracks behind the scenes. Simply months after De Bruyne’s personal public frustration with the supervisor, Dutch winger Noa Lang has adopted an identical path, launching what many are calling a “Jose Mourinho-style tirade” within the aftermath of a humiliating defeat.
Antonio Conte and battle are nothing new to one another. From Diego Costa’s brutal text-message exit at Chelsea to fiery standoffs with Mauro Icardi and Tanguy Ndombele, his managerial profession is stuffed with moments the place self-discipline met defiance. Now, simply weeks after Kevin De Bruyne’s indignant response to being substituted towards Milan, it appears Napoli resides by a sequel.
The 6-2 Champions League defeat to PSV marked one of many worst nights of Conte’s reign. It additionally marked the evening Noa Lang misplaced his endurance. The 26-year-old winger, who joined from PSV this summer time, was anticipated to deliver aptitude and unpredictability to the reigning Serie A champions. As an alternative, he has discovered himself on the bench — showing solely in its place in six matches, totaling simply 110 minutes this season.
After being not noted of the beginning lineup towards his former membership, Lang entered the match within the 58th minute, together with his facet already trailing closely. The Partenopei had been dismantled, their protection shredded, their spirit damaged. When the ultimate whistle blew, the participant’s frustration boiled over.
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What did Noa Lang say?
Chatting with Pickx Sports activities after the loss, Lang delivered a reducing however restrained message. “I higher not say something,” he mentioned, clearly seething. “The outcome says all of it. Dropping 6-2 to PSV? That’s simply scandalous. We didn’t even get an opportunity. We had been merely outplayed.”
He continued, “I wasn’t allowed to play? I don’t know what else to do. I’m coaching laborious. I’ve no different selection. I signed a contract right here, so I’ve to simply accept it as it’s proper now.”
However probably the most putting revelation got here when Lang admitted he had spoken to Conte simply as soon as since becoming a member of Napoli. “I don’t communicate to him fairly often. I spoke to him as soon as. I’m a bit confused now after this outcome. It’s higher to not say something.”
It was a five-word tirade that instantly went viral amongst Italian followers and pundits — a second that carried echoes of Mourinho’s notorious press-room restraint: saying nothing, whereas saying every little thing.
Antonio Conte fires again
If Lang’s outburst was calculated, Conte’s reply was attribute — sharp, chilly, and authoritative. Chatting with Ziggo Sport, the Italian supervisor dismissed any notion of favoritism or miscommunication. “Lang spent the total pre-season with us and performed some video games, however he was by no means a starter,” Conte started. “I repeat, we should discuss in regards to the group and never about people, in any other case it will be dangerous. Noa has to work, and he’ll go onto the pitch once I determine. In any other case, he’ll keep on the bench.”
He additionally made a broader level in regards to the risks of self-centered considering in a collective sport. “We have to discuss in regards to the group, not only one participant,” the skilled supervisor mentioned firmly. “It’s harmful in the event you turn into egocentric. That’s not good for our season.”
