Napoli Looking to Get Back to Basics Versus Inter

Napoli will try to tighten the screws and bounce back immediately after the collapse against PSV, and will have a prime opportunity to do so in the crunch match against Inter on Saturday. There was a frank conversation between Antonio Conte and the squad following the dismal loss. The boss wants to see the right attitude and fighting spirit, but there won’t be seismic changes, Corriere dello Sport informs.

The boss is eager to improve the defensive phase, which has been significantly weaker than last season. It was their driving force in 2024/2025. They conceded the fewest goals in the top five leagues. Instead, following Tuesday’s rout, they have already allowed 16 in 10 matches. Only Juventus, Monaco, and Nottingham Forest have done worse in Europe so far.

Napoli will host red-hot Inter, which have won seven matches in a row. The Nerazzurri have scored 18 times in Serie A play so far. On the other hand, the Partenopei haven’t lost at home since December 29, 2024, when Lazio ransacked the Diego Armando Maradona stadium with a one-nil result. The Azzurri have collected 11 wins and 3 draws in front of their fans since then.

Rasmus Hojlund might be able to recover from his thigh ailment. If he doesn’t, Conte will seriously consider fielding a false-nine rather than trusting Lorenzo Lucca again.

Our Take on Napoli

Aside from the substantial overhaul, which always causes some ripple effects, the coach might have sensed some complacency and a false sense of superiority among the players, which is pretty standard after winning a title. Before every tactical or lineup adjustment, they need to recapture last season’s humility, camaraderie, and grit to right the ship.