Antonio Conte’s Fiery Criticisms Could Lead to Napoli Exit

Antonio Conte is embroiled in a perilous situation at Napoli.

Despite leading Napoli to the Serie A title last season, the 56-year-old head coach has been subject to widespread resignation rumors.

After Napoli lost 2-0 to Bologna on Sunday, the under pressure head coach launched into a fiery condemnation of his squad.

“Three or four months have passed and there's no chemistry, no desire to fight together,” Conte told reporters. “I don't know if we'll be able to change the situation. I don't want to be with a deceased person; everyone has to take responsibility. I'm the first to be held accountable. Heart transplants aren't an option. Each of us needs to rediscover our spirit and our grit.”

The comments were a bit eyebrow-raising, given that Napoli is only two points behind Serie A leaders Inter Milan. He then began criticizing himself for his role in Napoli playing without the spirit and identity that won them the Scudetto last season.

"We often think that change can happen overnight,” he said. “What we've done shouldn't be forgotten, but we need to keep working. We need to ask ourselves if we're doing it the right way and with the same desire for revenge as last season. I'm disappointed because I'm not finding the energy in the guys again; it means I'm not doing a good job.”

Conte also has taken a leave of absence from the club until Nov. 17.

After winning Serie A with Napoli, Conte became the first manager in history to win the Italian top flight with three different clubs. He previously captured the league title three times with Juventus and once while in charge of Inter.

He also won the 2016-17 Premier League while manager of Chelsea.

Conte Has a History of Combustible Moments