Antonio Conte takes full responsibility for his side’s humiliating 3-0 defeat at Hellas Verona in the opening game of the 2024-25 Serie A season, but feels his team “melted like snow in the sun” during the humiliating second half at the Bentegodi Stadium.
Conte apologized to the Partenopei fans who had traveled with him for what he considered to be an “unacceptable” performance in the second half.
His team had taken a 0-0 lead at half-time, but lost their star player Khvicha Kvaratskhelia just before the break and conceded a goal five minutes after the restart. Goals from Dailon Livramento and a brace from Daniel Mosquera on his debut led to a miserable 3-0 defeat.
Conte takes full responsibility for Naples shock
“In the first half there was only one team in the game. I don’t think Verona had a chance. However, we gave Verona a chance right at the start of the second half and fell behind in the second,” Conte told Sky Sport Italia after the final whistle.
“Then we melted like snow in the sun. I would like to say that we should apologize to the Neapolitan fans who follow us with so much passion. I am the coach and it is right that I take full responsibility.”
The former coach of the Italian national team, Juventus and Inter sincerely apologized to the club’s loyal supporters.
“I apologize with all modesty because the second half was unacceptable. A performance that shows that we have to work hard in every respect. I came to Naples with a lot of enthusiasm and a lot of desire. If I can help Naples, I will do so.”
Conte added that Napoli could still welcome a few new signings before the transfer window closes, with David Neres passing a medical on Sunday and Alessandro Buongiorno yet to make his Serie A debut for the club.
“Apart from the transfer market, it is worrying to watch the second half and see how we melted like snow.
“One, two, three, four could come onto the market, as many as the club wants to sign. The problems have to be addressed directly and they are not necessarily easy to solve.”
Serie A | Verona 3:0 Naples: Dream debuts are nightmares for Conte
