The coach's end-of-training-camp press conference in Castel di Sangro
Antonio Conte says he is pleased with the pre-season progress made by the team and the work being done by the club for the future of Napoli.
The coach was speaking at his final media conference in Castel di Sangro on Wednesday.
FOUNDATIONS
“We've finished an important period of work. We all know that pre-season is the time when you lay the groundwork for the season ahead with the group that's already in place and with the new arrivals. It's a work in progress. I'm happy with the lads. They're working with intensity and professionalism and they've all responded well to what I've asked.
“Obviously we'll need a bit more time to get everyone settled in properly. We have to work patiently because we have young players who can be the future of Napoli. We're laying solid foundations for the team and for the club.”
TACTICS
“We're considering several tactical solutions. The most important thing is to have good alternatives that you can use while maintaining the team's shape and strength. 4-3-3 is one formation these players can play but we're looking at different options to get the most out of everyone's attributes.”
TRANSFERS
“In the last year, since I joined, we've brought in 13 players and sold seven, besides various outgoing loans. That means we're a club that is continuing to rebuild. We won the Scudetto after my first year and it was an incredible achievement that we managed thanks to the commitment my players showed. Now we need to keep going and take another step to give the team stability and bolster the squad so that we can compete on all fronts. We're proud to continue this journey with the club by putting together the squad we expect to have by the end of the transfer window.”
DEPARTURES
“I want to thank the players who have left who helped us win the Scudetto. I'll always be very fond of them. It should be said that those who have left expressed the desire to move on themselves. Of course it's only right that the club agrees but I've said before that I'll never keep anyone who says they want to leave. It's right that we all choose our own path.”
THE CHALLENGE
“I'm proud to lead this team and to share the club's plans. I'll be happy if I'm able to get Napoli competing with the teams who are traditionally at the top of the table every year and to challenge for the top prizes.”
