Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis, who turned 76 at midnight, does not hide behind diplomatic phrases and speaks frankly about the future of coach Antonio Conte.
„I met Conte during a vacation in the Maldives – he immediately impressed me. While we were swimming and talking, I saw how serious his mentality was. Back in November 2023, I wanted to entrust him with the team, which was in difficulty at the time. However, he replied to me: "President, we did not build this team together – I can't do it like that.’“
Now, after winning the Scudetto, De Laurentiis' words sound even more meaningful: “When we had to choose a coach for the season, I had no doubts – and I was right. And as for the future – never say never. Coaches have their own character and that must be respected. We shouldn't force them, even when they have ‘iron’ contracts. If Conte decides to stay, we will welcome him with ‘Welcome!” and we will be happy to play in the Champions League with him. We are already working on making Napoli even stronger.“
De Laurentiis' statement leaves the door open, but also shows respect for Conte's personal choice and professional autonomy – something rare in the football industry.