Insigne backs Conte and insists Napoli deserve more respect | OneFootball

Lorenzo Insigne has pushed back against the criticism aimed at Napoli this season, insisting Antonio Conte has already given the team the structure and mentality needed to compete at the top.

Speaking to Viva el Futbol from Naples, via TuttoMercatoWeb, the former captain also revisited his exit from the club, clarifying that his move to Toronto was not driven by financial demands.

CHESTER, PENNSYLVANIA – APRIL 22: Lorenzo Insigne #24 of Toronto FC reacts against Philadelphia Unionat Subaru Park on April 22, 2023 in Chester, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)

“There were no problems with the fans or the team. The president made his choice and I made mine… I never asked Napoli for the money I later earned in Toronto,” Insigne said, adding that while the move didn’t work out perfectly from a football perspective, it benefited his family.

Insigne urges calm and faith in Conte at Napoli

Turning to the current campaign, he urged supporters to stay calm. “Conte is a guarantee… Napoli are -2 from first place, what are we talking about? If we don’t protect Napoli, who will?” he said.

The Italian winger is currently a free agent, with speculation linking the former Napoli man with a reunion with old head coach Maurizio Sarri at Lazio.

NAPLES, ITALY – AUGUST 16: Coach of Napoli Maurizio Sarri and player Lorenzo Insigne during the UEFA Champions League Qualifying Play-Offs Round First Leg match between SSC Napoli and OGC Nice at Stadio San Paolo on August 16, 2017 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

Insigne’s contract with Toronto expired in the summer and now he is assessing his options ahead of his next steps.