Napoli manager Antonio Conte has opened up after his team’s 2-0 loss to Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League, dramatically describing the painful defeat as the “work of the devil.”
The Italian coach, who previously managed Chelsea and Inter Milan, admitted that the result at the Etihad Stadium on Thursday night left his players and supporters with a bitter feeling. Despite Napoli’s strong start, the evening ended in disappointment following crucial moments that changed the flow of the game.
Key Moments of the Match
Manchester City secured the victory with goals from Erling Haaland and Jeremy Doku, both of whom showcased their attacking brilliance. However, Napoli’s night turned sour as early as the 21st minute when team captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo received a straight red card for a foul on Haaland.
Conte explained that the dismissal altered everything:
“We were all left with a bitter taste in our mouths. It’s disappointing, because we prepared for the match exactly as we played it in the opening 20 minutes. The sending off changed it. Without that incident, City would have struggled against us.”
Conte Blames Misfortune
In a candid moment, Conte used a striking metaphor to describe the incident:
“Sometimes the devil takes a turn, there’s a cruel twist of fate. Last year we didn’t experience a red card, but today in the Champions League, it happened.”
His comments highlighted how uncontrollable circumstances can impact even the best tactical preparation.
Message to Napoli Fans
Conte also issued an apology to the Napoli supporters who had high hopes for the team’s Champions League run:
“I’m sorry, these are games where a sending off ruins them. In such moments, you cannot do the exact right thing. It’s frustrating for everyone.”
The manager promised to refocus his squad as Napoli look ahead to future European fixtures, determined to bounce back stronger
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