Napoli-Inter: misunderstanding sparks row between Conte, Marotta, Chivu | OneFootball

The words of Antonio Conte after Napoli-Inter 3-1 have generated tension in the Nerazzurri environment. However, according to sources close to the club, the basis of the controversy with Beppe Marotta and Cristian Chivu seems to be a misunderstanding. Here's what really happened in the post-match that ignited the media scene.

Behind the Scenes of Napoli-Inter: The Misunderstanding that Sparked the Clash Between Conte, Marotta, and Chivu

After Napoli's victory over Inter, Antonio Conte did not limit himself to commenting on the performance on the field. The Lecce coach criticized the attitude of the Nerazzurri executives, stating: “A great team must ask itself what the true reasons for a defeat are and not rely on others' mistakes, otherwise it creates excuses for the environment and the players.”

Words that within the Inter club were deemed “serious,” both in form and content. As reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport, the direct reference to Cristian Chivu—later praised for his fair play—and to Beppe Marotta caused irritation at the higher levels of Viale della Liberazione.

Marotta had also praised Napoli

In reality, Marotta's statements were more balanced than Conte had perceived. The Inter executive, while criticizing Mariani's refereeing, acknowledged Napoli's merit: “Napoli's penalty directed the match, clarity is needed. Rocchi had said ‘enough with the soft penalties.’ Napoli legitimized the victory in the last half hour.”

A comment aimed at calling for greater uniformity in refereeing criteria, without diminishing the performance of the Azzurri.

Conte's stern reply: “I would not have allowed it as a coach”

Upon learning of Marotta's words, Conte responded firmly, adding a remark destined to spark discussion: “I would not have allowed a director or president of mine to intervene like that as a coach. It also diminishes the coach. I have always defended myself alone, I don't need a dad.”

A statement that marked a new fracture between Conte and his former management, reigniting old tensions that remained latent after his departure from Inter.

The misunderstanding that generated the controversy

According to the reconstruction by La Gazzetta dello Sport, Conte misunderstood Inter's post-match management. The Napoli coach believed that Chivu would not make any statements to the media, interpreting Marotta's words as a solitary and uncoordinated intervention.

In reality, Chivu then spoke to the microphones, showing calm tones and focusing exclusively on the technical analysis of the game. The supposed silence of the Nerazzurri deputy, therefore, never occurred: hence the misunderstanding that turned an internal misunderstanding into a national media case.

Tension born from past relationships

The relationship between Conte and the Inter management has never been simple, and this episode has reignited old misunderstandings. The former Inter coach continues to be a divisive figure for the Nerazzurri environment, while in Naples he enjoys wide credit after a convincing start to the season.

However, there remains the feeling that this controversy arose from a misunderstanding rather than a real desire to attack. A spark fueled by crossed communications and old wounds still open.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇮🇹 here.