Napoli’s Antonio Conte takes subtle jab at “arrogant” former Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim | OneFootball

Ahead of Saturday’s clash between Napoli and Sassuolo, Antonio Conte sat down with the media for something of a feisty press conference.

The seasoned Italian manager had plenty to say when approached with the topic of Rasmus Hojlund’s involvement in the side, given his recent goalless run that has lasted four Serie A games since a brace against Cremonese.

In a shaded yet direct message towards what many believe to be former Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim, Conte demonstrated a loyalty to his striker, saying;

“Some young coaches nowadays are arrogant and don’t want to adapt. They see a young striker struggling, and instead of training him, they blame him.”

“They always complain and blame everyone but themselves, because everything is handed to them on a silver platter.”

Now, despite his side being well involved in this season’s title race, sitting in third and six points off the Serie A summit, Conte recently found himself at a new low point. He picked up 39 points in the first half of the season, which arrived as the lowest tally he’s ever had as a coach in the Italian top flight.

This snappy statement may be the result of two frustrations in one. On the one hand, he could be empathising with another under-fire individual and moving the focus away from his player. After all, Hojlund has still managed to contribute six goals and two assists in 16 league outings this term.

Rasmus Hojlund’s difference in form under Conte and Amorim (via Fotmob).

Or, considering that he has two more goals than he did in 32 Premier League outings under Amorim, it could be a more pointed jab at the striker’s former boss, who has ultimately stepped away from the mess at Old Trafford.

A further hint at a stubbornness to adapt may be in reference to the refusal to shift from a five at the back. This was one of many grating undertones that, while working at Sporting, played a part in driving a wedge between the Portuguese tactician and the Manchester United board.

Regardless of what the fizzling media outcome is of this remark, Conte will hope for the last laugh as he relies on training and patience with his playing staff as they approach their match against the midtable Neroverdi.

GIFN | Max Bradfield