Napoli boss Antonio Conte admitted it has been ‘difficult’ trying to get some players to join the team this transfer window due to the club’s lack of European football for the upcoming season.
Napoli were held to a 0-0 draw against Serie B side Modena in the Coppa Italia on Saturday evening, but progressed after a 4-3 victory in the penalty shootout.
Conte warned that Saturday’s stalemate was a bit of a reality check, and possibly a sign of things to come if there are no new signings before the end of the window.
Conte: ‘I want to strengthen the squad, because we need it’
Speaking after the spot-kicks, Conte was asked by various broadcasters whether he is expecting any more incoming signings before the start of the Serie A season next weekend.
“I knew the situation when I came, and in the market you have limits on the cost of the player’s salary,” Conte told SportMediaset, via Gianluca Di Marzio.
“Most of the time, players don’t come here because we don’t play in the (European) cups.
“I want the best for Napoli and to try and strengthen the squad, because we need it. I don’t know what will happen down the line. Today was a dose of reality.”
The former Juventus and Inter coach believes there is still a lot to be done, both on the training ground and in the boardroom.
“There is a lot of work to do, us on the pitch, but also the club. There are objective things (that need to be done), but I don’t want to go into finger-pointing.”
#Napoli, #Conte: "Abbiamo bisogno di rinforzi, gara col #Modena bel bagno di umiltà"https://t.co/Tianrmfsd2
— Gianluca Di Marzio (@DiMarzio) August 10, 2024
Coppa Italia: Napoli 0-0 Modena – Partenopei scrape through on penalties
The season has not even started yet, but he’s already complaining LOL. Get your popcorn & soda ready, folks …. ADL vs Conte is starting sooner than expected !