Conte: Napoli ‘melted like snow in the sun’ during ‘unacceptable’ second half | OneFootball

Antonio Conte takes full responsibility for his side’s 3-0 humbling away to Hellas Verona in their opening match of the 2024-25 Serie A season, but feels like his side ‘melted like snow in the sun’ during a humiliating second half experience at the Bentegodi stadium.

Conte apologised to the travelling Partenopei supporters for what he labelled an ‘unacceptable’ second-half showing.

His side had gone in level at 0-0 for half-time, but lost star man Khvicha Kvaratskhelia just before the interval, and then conceded five minutes after the restart. Goals from Dailon Livramento and a brace from Daniel Mosquera on his debut inflicted a miserable 3-0 loss.

Conte takes full responsibility for Napoli shocker

“In the first half, there was only one team in it. I don’t think Verona had a shot. Having said that, we immediately let Verona have a shot at the start of the second half, and in the second instance we went behind,” Conte told Sky Sport Italia after full-time.

“Then we melted like snow in the sun. What I feel like saying is that we should apologise to the Neapolitan supporters, who follow us with such passion. I am the coach and it is right that I take full responsibility.”

The former Italy, Juventus and Inter coach offered his sincerest apologies to the club’s loyal supporters.

“I humbly apologise because the second half was unacceptable. A performance that shows we need to work hard in every aspect. I came to Napoli with lots of enthusiasm, with great desire. If I can help Napoli, I will.

Conte went on to add that Napoli could still welcome a few new signings before the close of the transfer window. David Neres arrived for his medical on Sunday, and Alessandro Buongiorno is still yet to make his Serie A debut for the club.

“Aside from the transfer market, what is worrying is seeing the second half and how we melted away like snow.

“On the market, one, two, three, four could arrive, as many as the club want to sign. The problems must be faced head-on, and they are not necessarily easy issues to fix.”