Antonio Conte shared insights on his team’s tactical adjustments that contributed to Napoli’s 3-1 triumph over Atalanta, stating, “I am very honest with my players. I am exactly as you see me.”
Heading into this match, Napoli was feeling the pressure after managing only two draws in their last three games across Serie A and the Champions League.
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They launched off to an ideal start against Atalanta, with David Neres scoring twice in the first half, marking his first goals in 11 months.
Just before halftime, Noa Lang celebrated his second start of the season with his inaugural goal for the club.
Atalanta, however, responded strongly after the break, with Gianluca Scamacca pulling one back with a stunning acrobatic volley, as the visitors fought to reclaim points.
Conte Revitalizes Napoli
NAPLES, ITALY – NOVEMBER 22: Raffaele Palladino, head coach of Atalanta BC, greets Antonio Conte, head coach of SSC Napoli, before the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Atalanta BC at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on November 22, 2025. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
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Conte expressed satisfaction with the outcome and the team’s performance: “We are pleased with the win and how we achieved it, especially in the first half with our high tempo. We kept up the high press in the second half, but it was expected that a team down 3-0 would push forward,” Conte remarked to Sky Sport Italia.
“We could have controlled the ball better in the second half, but it’s acceptable considering we defeated a formidable Atalanta team. I analyzed their performance against Olympique Marseille, where they won in a challenging atmosphere with which I am familiar.”
“The team had great energy today.”
Check the Football Italia Player Ratings for Napoli 3-1 Atalanta
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When asked if he felt more reassured by the response of his players after expressing discontent following a 2-0 loss to Bologna, Conte remarked, “Perhaps those outside who don’t know the relationship I have with the players are more worried than I am. There is a strong bond between us; I am very transparent and don’t wear masks, so I am very honest with them. I am as you see me. I know that many may not appreciate that, but I’ve always believed that honesty is crucial.”
“It’s fitting that the media can discuss, while we need to keep focusing on our work.”
NAPLES, ITALY – NOVEMBER 22: Antonio Conte, head coach of SSC Napoli, during the Serie A match against Atalanta BC at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on November 22, 2025. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
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One tactical change to maximize the performance of their wingers involved shifting them closer to striker Rasmus Hojlund, altering the formation from a 3-4-3 to a 3-4-2-1.
This adjustment came in light of injury setbacks, which sidelined players like Billy Gilmour, Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa, Kevin De Bruyne, Alex Meret, and Romelu Lukaku.
“The latest issue with Frank Anguissa, who suffered an injury during international duty, prompted me to reflect on the current state of our midfield,” Conte noted. “We have very few players available; Elmas isn’t naturally a midfielder, but he’s stepping up well. Our options now are Lobo, Scott, and a promising young player, Vergara, who is also more of an attacking midfielder.”
NAPLES, ITALY – NOVEMBER 22: David Neres of SSC Napoli celebrates with teammates after scoring the first goal during the Serie A match against Atalanta BC at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on November 22, 2025. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
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With this victory, Napoli temporarily sits at the top of the Serie A table, pending the results of Roma’s match against Cremonese and the upcoming Milan Derby on Sunday.
Following their Champions League matchup with Qarabag next Tuesday, Napoli faces a crucial clash with Roma at the Stadio Olimpico next weekend.
“Qarabag has been the surprise team in this season’s Champions League, so we must recuperate and prepare for this new challenge,” Conte concluded.