Napoli's high hopes for the new season took an unexpected hit as coach Antonio Conte, the club's fifth in just over a year, witnessed his team crumble 3-0 against Hellas Verona in his first match back in Serie A.
\"We melted like snow in the sun after the first goal,\" Conte reflected solemnly after the defeat. \"We should apologize to the Neapolitan people, who follow us with passion. I am the coach and it is right that I take full responsibility. In the second half there was an unacceptable performance. We should be ashamed, and I have to be ashamed, as I am coach.\"
The game saw Verona capitalize on Napoli's shaky defense, with Dailon Livramento and Daniel Mosquera netting twice, both making impressive league debuts. The match also dealt a blow to Napoli as key player Khvicha Kvaratskhelia suffered an injury, further complicating Conte's rebuilding efforts.
Since Luciano Spalletti led Napoli to their first title in over 30 years, the team has struggled, finishing 10th last season. Conte, who has previously guided Juventus and Inter Milan to league triumphs, faces an immediate test to steer Napoli back to its former glory.
Verona emerged as one of only two teams to secure a win in the opening weekend, alongside Lazio, who also bounced back after conceding an early goal.
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Conte has work to do as Napoli 'melted like snow in the sun' at Verona
cgtn.com
