Speaking to the press (with quotes via IlNapolista) from his first conference of the season at the team’s training camp in Dimaro, Conte said “With so many competitions, we can’t think in terms of starters and non-starters. We’ll have lots of matches and there will always be space for everyone. That’s why we need to build up the squad, that wasn’t structured and still isn’t, to handle all these competitions. In my opinion we are moving very deliberately, with an eye on the present but also very much on the future.”

“Aside from De Bruyne, the others have shown very good potential but haven’t yet reached their peak. My job is to help them grow and raise their level. Many of them have chosen Napoli because they know this is a good place to significantly improve their career.

“That’s true for Lucca, Lang and Marianucci, who is only 21. Beukema is coming and these are good players who want to elevate their status. That will bring us benefits, which is why the long-term work we’re doing is so important.”

“I understand people ask for miracles,” Conte continued, “but you can’t overlook the facts.” He argued that “you don’t just show up and win in the Champions League. It is a process, something you build over time. To do that, I need to stay longer at clubs, otherwise it is impossible to construct something lasting. The clubs I left behind are now more structured and competitive.”

The coach concluded strongly, “So to those who criticise me, I say to know the facts before you talk. And we also know that our resources today are not comparable to other clubs, it is not a fair fight! Look at the transfers other clubs are making: 70, 80, 100 million. We know who we are and we are proud of who we are – but we also know our limits, and it is right that we respect them. Our TV revenue is one-fifth of what those clubs bring in, so naturally our spending power is different.”