According to reports from Corriere dello Sport, securing a spot in the Champions League will be a decisive factor in Napoli’s decision regarding Antonio Conte’s future at the club.
The relationship between Conte and club chairman Aurelio De Laurentiis has reportedly been strained for most of Conte’s tenure, with a notably cool embrace during Napoli’s title celebrations last year highlighting the perceived tension.
As the season draws to a close, speculation links the 56-year-old manager with a potential return to the Italian national team, as the FIGC reportedly considers a significant restructuring following their failure to qualify for another World Cup.
Conte has one year remaining on his contract with Napoli. However, the club is expected to expedite their end-of-season discussions with the coach about his future following their recent 2-0 defeat to Lazio.
This loss to Lazio means Napoli must continue to fight for results to secure Champions League football for the upcoming season. They currently sit third in the league standings, trailing Como and Roma (in fifth and sixth place, respectively) by eight points. A forthcoming match against Cesc Fàbregas’ team in two weeks could be pivotal in shaping their European prospects and potentially initiating crucial talks between Conte and the club about his long-term role.
