Napoli star branded ‘stupid’ for Antonio Conte comments after Champions League defeat

Noa Lang admits limited contact with Antonio Conte since his summer move to Napoli and remains unused after a 6-2 loss to PSV. Betting outcome: he looks unlikely to start soon — punters should avoid backing Lang for goals or assists and favour Napoli lineups that exclude him for immediate fixtures.

Noa Lang admits limited contact with Conte after heavy defeat

Noa Lang has revealed he has barely spoken with Antonio Conte since joining Napoli in the summer, as frustration grows after the Serie A champions were thumped 6-2 by PSV. Signed for around €28 million from PSV, the 26-year-old winger is yet to start a game for Napoli and was introduced from the bench in Eindhoven.

Lang said about his situation: “I have to accept it as it is right now. I have no other option.” When asked if he had spoken to Conte about his lack of minutes, he added: “No, not that much. I spoke to him once. But we’re talking about the match now. I think that’s more relevant than that.”

Conte’s response: team first, work hard to earn a place

Antonio Conte downplayed Lang’s comments and stressed collective responsibility after the Champions League defeat. Conte insisted discussions are focused on the team rather than individuals and warned Lang he must “work hard” to earn starts. “Noa can be dangerous for us this season but he has to work hard. Otherwise, I’ll play different players and he’ll be on the bench,” Conte said.

Punditry raises questions over timing and attitude

A pundit reacting to Lang’s remarks criticised the winger’s timing and suggested his future at the club could already be in doubt. The pundit described the interview as “very strange” for a player new to a league and questioned whether Lang’s temperament and behaviour fit with Conte’s demanding style. He further suggested the coach may not see a long-term role for Lang if the situation doesn’t improve.

Tactical and squad implications for Napoli

Lang’s arrival was intended to inject creativity, but his lack of starts means Napoli will rely on other attacking options. Conte’s emphasis on work rate and tactical discipline suggests Lang must adapt quickly to the manager’s system or risk becoming a squad player. The 6-2 setback also raises broader selection and tactical questions for upcoming fixtures.

What this means for bettors and fantasy managers

Lang’s comments and Conte’s public stance point to continued limited playing time in the short term. For bettors, this reduces Lang’s appeal in anytime-goalscorer and goal-assist markets; backing Napoli lineups without him or favouring other attacking starters is the safer option until his role becomes clearer. Fantasy managers should hold off on selecting Lang until he earns consistent starts.

Noa Lang has been criticised after claiming that he has barely spoken to Antonio Conte since his move to Napoli in the summer.

Metro