Inter Milan, Napoli Prepare for Title Showdown Amidst Injuries

NAPLES, Italy — Inter Milan manager Antonio Conte is urging his players to maintain their resolve as they pursue the Serie A title, despite setbacks and a growing injury list. The pressure mounts with the season nearing its conclusion, and only three points separating Inter from second-placed Napoli.

The critical matchup is set for Sunday, with Napoli hosting Inter Milan, who currently lead the standings with 61 points. Conte expressed confidence in his team’s ability to compete for the Scudetto, stating, “We’d be mad not to believe at this stage — nine games left, three points off the top.”

Conte emphasized that their performances have placed them in a surprising position, making it imperative to maintain their belief. “With all our strengths and flaws, we’re still there, in a position nobody expected, to be honest,” he added. “It’s our right to believe, after we give everything we’ve got and always leave the pitch with our shirts soaked in sweat.”

As the title race tightens, Conte also acknowledged the importance of keeping an eye on the Champions League qualification spots, reinforcing the need for continuous focus on securing first place.

Napoli find themselves at a disadvantage with injuries following the recent international break. “Frank Anguissa had an adductor problem and we’re monitoring the situation carefully,” Conte shared during a pre-match press conference.

He added that another key player, who also suffered an adductor issue, has been struggling to regain form. However, recovery news came in the form of Brazilian winger Neres, who is fit to play after a hamstring injury. “Neres is fully recovered, he’s made great progress and he will definitely play — maybe not from the start, but he’ll feature for sure,” Conte noted.

Though Napoli have experienced a tough stretch, managing only one win in their last seven matches, Conte remained optimistic about his squad’s abilities. “I think we deserved better in recent weeks than our results would suggest. Unconsciously, results do affect the mentality of the players, and that is a mistake,” he elaborated.

Conte is focused on creating a holistic approach to their struggles, emphasizing the need for growth. “It is a growth process, we need to recognize those moments we get wrong and work on them,” he concluded. With the title race heating up, the outcome of this weekend’s clash could significantly impact both teams’ aspirations for the season.