Napoli: Belgian press warn De Bruyne, don’t cross Conte | OneFootball

Sparks fly at Napoli between the coach and the Belgian star. The substitution at San Siro continues to spark debate: Belgian media urge De Bruyne to be cautious. Conte: “I hope he was angry about the result, otherwise he’s got the wrong person.” The news was reported by Il Napolista.

Napoli, Belgium warns De Bruyne: “Acting like an idiot with Conte is a lost cause”

The incident is well-known: in the 72nd minute of the San Siro match against Milan, right after converting the penalty for the temporary 2-1, Kevin De Bruyne was substituted by Antonio Conte. The Belgian reacted with a displeased expression, avoiding any eye contact with the coach. This attitude did not go unnoticed, fueling debate among fans and the media.

Conte’s decision, motivated by the need to bring on fresh legs, raised doubts not only in Naples but also abroad. In Belgium, in fact, Radio Télévision Belge Francophone (RTBF) dedicated an editorial to the topic, emphasizing how the relationship between coach and star player is a delicate balance to maintain.

Conte tones it down: “I hope he was angry about the result”

Speaking at a press conference, Antonio Conte tried to put out the controversy: “I hope he was angry about the result, because if it was for anything else, he’s got the wrong person.”

A comment that suggests a desire to play down the gesture, but at the same time reaffirms the central role of discipline within the squad. For Conte, leadership is non-negotiable, not even with the team’s most prominent player.

This isn’t the first time the coach has made tough decisions regarding the Belgian. Already in the Champions League against Manchester City, De Bruyne was substituted following a teammate’s red card, a choice that surprised many, especially considering the star’s return to Manchester, where he was warmly welcomed by his former stadium.

Belgium critical: “You don’t mess around with Conte”

On the incident, RTBF columnist Swann Borsellino weighed in with harsh words: “Acting like an idiot with Conte is a lost cause, for any footballer.”

A blunt judgment that reflects the established image of the coach from Lecce: Conte does not tolerate protests and demands absolute respect for his decisions. For this reason, De Bruyne will have to find different ways to express any discontent, without damaging a relationship that remains crucial for Napoli’s ambitions.

Napoli needs unity to face the schedule

At a crucial moment in the season, with fixtures coming thick and fast between the league and the Champions League, Napoli cannot afford internal tensions. Conte knows he must keep the group united and aims to restore calm in the dressing room.

De Bruyne, for his part, remains the technical leader of the Azzurri and will be called upon to respond on the pitch, turning his frustration into positive energy. For Napoli, the challenge is twofold: winning matches and maintaining the unity of the group.

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