Conte issues apology to fans as Napoli crumbles against Verona

Napoli manager Antonio Conte issued a heartfelt apology to the club's devoted fans following his team's crushing 3-0 defeat against Hellas Verona in Serie A on Sunday. Expressing accountability for the disappointing result, he took full responsibility for the loss.

Conte and Napoli endured a dreadful start to the campaign when Verona scored three goals in the second half, with the 2023 champions unable to prevent the hosts from creating chance after chance.

"We immediately let Verona have a shot at the start of the second half, and in the second instance we went behind," Conte told Italia.

"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."

Conte said a lot of work would be needed to bring Napoli up to the standard he aimed for.

"(It was) 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."

The 55-year-old coach said he might seek additional reinforcements before the transfer window closed.

"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."