ANTONIO CONTE HINTS AT KELVIN DE BRUYNE AND RASHMUS HOJLUND ISSUE AFTER NAPOLI’S HEAVY DEFEAT TO PSV
Antonio Conte Hints at Kevin De Bruyne and Rasmus Højlund Issue After Napoli’s Heavy Defeat to PSV
Napoli manager Antonio Conte has once again found himself under intense scrutiny after his side suffered a crushing defeat to PSV Eindhoven in the UEFA Champions League group stage. The 4–1 loss not only exposed serious flaws in Napoli’s defensive structure but also raised questions about Conte’s handling of star players Kevin De Bruyne and Rasmus Højlund, both of whom appeared visibly frustrated during and after the match.
In his post-match interview, Conte hinted that all was not well behind the scenes. “There are things that must stay inside the dressing room,” he said, his tone noticeably sharp. “When players start thinking individually, the team suffers collectively. Napoli must rediscover balance and unity.”
While he didn’t name names directly, his remarks came shortly after cameras captured a tense exchange between De Bruyne and Højlund midway through the second half. The Belgian playmaker, who joined Napoli in a high-profile summer move, was seen gesturing in frustration after Højlund failed to convert a through ball that could have brought the Italian side back into the game. Moments later, Conte substituted both players, a decision that left many fans puzzled and some angry.
The Italian media have wasted no time dissecting the situation. Gazzetta dello Sport described the scene as “a storm waiting to break,” suggesting that Conte’s iron-fisted approach may be clashing with the personalities of his star signings. Meanwhile, Corriere dello Sport speculated that there could be deeper tactical disagreements, noting that De Bruyne has been played out of position in recent matches.
Conte’s tactical decisions have also been called into question. Napoli’s midfield appeared disjointed, their pressing inconsistent, and their defensive line exposed by PSV’s pace on the counterattack. Critics argue that the former Chelsea and Inter coach’s trademark system, usually compact and aggressive, has yet to take hold with this squad.
“This is not about individuals,” Conte insisted. “It’s about commitment and understanding. I expect my players to give everything, not just in attack, but in every phase of play.”
Still, his words did little to ease tensions. According to several reports, De Bruyne left the stadium without speaking to the media, while Højlund’s camp is said to be “concerned” about the forward’s role under Conte. The young Danish striker has started every match since his arrival, but his confidence appears to be waning, having now gone six games without a goal goal.
Napoli’s supporters, once hopeful that Conte’s arrival would bring European stability, are beginning to express doubts. Social media erupted after the defeat, with fans demanding explanations for the team’s lack of cohesion. “We have the players, but no chemistry,” wrote one supporter. “Conte needs to adapt, not just discipline.”
Analysts have pointed out that the situation could quickly escalate if results don’t improve. With tough fixtures ahead in both Serie A and Europe, Conte faces a crucial test of leadership. A loss against Juventus next weekend could place his position under even greater pressure.
Nevertheless, Conte remains defiant. “I’ve faced worse situations in my career,” he said. “This is Napoli, we fight, we rebuild, we come back stronger. But the players must follow the plan.”
Whether his message will resonate with a star-studded but unsettled dressing room remains to be seen. For now, the defeat to PSV has left Napoli shaken, their unity in question, and their manager searching for solutions to a growing rift between leadership, tactics, and individual talent.
If Conte cannot mend the cracks, both tactical and personal, Napoli’s season could unravel before it ever truly begins.
