Capello unconvinced by Conte’s latest claims but changes title prediction | OneFootball

Fabio Capello believes Napoli are now the favourites to win the Scudetto, although Antonio Conte’s latest claims left him ‘perplexed.’

The Serie A title race is heating up as Napoli and Inter are level on 71 points with just five games remaining.

The Partenopei beat Monza 1-0 on Saturday, but Conte shocked the environment with some controversial statements, to which Aurelio De Laurentiis replied.

“Conte’s words could harm the team in Monza. The whole controversy left me a bit perplexed,” Capello told Gazzetta.

“I’m curious to see if Napoli players can move beyond Conte’s words or at least look at them in a different light. At the same time, Inter need to respond, starting from the Coppa Italia derby.”

Capello has said multiple times this year that Inter were the favourites to win the Scudetto, but he’s no longer convinced after the latest results.

“Not after the weekend. Everything has been turned upside down,” he admitted.

Capello unconvinced by Conte’s latest claims but changes title prediction

MONZA, ITALY – APRIL 19: Antonio Conte, Head Coach of Napoli, looks on prior to the Serie A match between Monza and Napoli at U-Power Stadium on April 19, 2025 in Monza, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

“Inzaghi’s team has played and will continue to play more matches across multiple competitions, and their league schedule is tougher than that of their rivals.

“Napoli didn’t shine in Monza, but they found a match-winner in McTominay, like Anguissa in the past. Goals from the midfielders make the difference.

“That’s what Inter have been missing in recent league games. Barella and Mkhitaryan haven’t scored in a while, and Calhanoglu has mostly scored in cup games. The only midfielder who scores consistently is Frattesi, but he rarely starts.

“No need to beat around the bush, Napoli have become the favourite in the title race.”

The former Italian tactician even questioned one of Inter’s tactical decisions, made by coach Simone Inzaghi.

“I didn’t understand the decision to start Correa and leave Arnautovic on the bench, especially with Thuram unavailable,” he said.

The fixture list may have a considerable impact on the title race, and Capello feels that playing before direct opponents may prove to be a slight advantage for Inter or Napoli.

“Personally, I’d always prefer to play first, you go on the pitch without being influenced by what the others have done,” he concluded.

“You have to play and win, that’s all you have in your mind.”

Inter’s next Serie A game against Roma has been postponed, as it was scheduled for Saturday, the day of Pope Francis’ funeral. Meanwhile, Conte’s Napoli will host Torino at the Stadio Maradona.