Conte Challenges McTominay: It’s His Choice to Play or Not

Antonio Conte, head coach of Napoli, is gearing up for an important match against PSV. The match marks Napoli’s third game in the European tournament. Despite a recent setback in the Serie A, Conte remains focused on the upcoming challenge.
Conte’s Mindset Ahead of the Match
After suffering a second league defeat this season, Conte’s confidence remains intact. He acknowledges his team’s performance during their last match, despite the negative outcome. “We played well, but results matter,” he stated. His eyes are set on returning to winning ways against PSV, emphasizing the need for careful strategy and execution.
Player Availability: McTominay’s Decision
A key question ahead of the match concerns Scott McTominay’s fitness. Conte revealed uncertainty about McTominay’s participation, stating, “It will be up to him to decide.” He highlighted the importance of allowing players to make their own choices regarding their health. Previously absent due to an ankle problem, McTominay’s availability remains unclear.
Noa Lang’s Progress
Another focal point for Napoli is Noa Lang, a player who transferred from PSV. Although Lang had a goal disallowed in a previous match, Conte sees potential in his development. “Noa is improving tactically,” Conte remarked. He explained that Lang is adjusting to the tactical demands of Serie A, which differ from his previous experience in the Dutch league.
- Performance Summary: Napoli has scored more goals than last season but also conceded more.
- Strategy Focus: Conte aims for a balanced approach in both offense and defense.
- Ambitions: The objective is clear: elevate the team’s level of play in European competitions.
Conte’s Vision for European Success
Referring to his team’s path, Conte stated, “Our road is the European one, where everyone plays to score one more goal.” He believes taking calculated risks is essential for growth. Improving team performance requires adapting to new challenges, and Conte is committed to this evolution.
As Napoli prepares for their match against PSV, the focus will be on strategy, player health, and tactical execution. The upcoming game is a crucial component of their European journey.