Antonio Conte Hails Romelu Lukaku as Key to Napoli’s Success After Cagliari Win
Napoli coach Antonio Conte has lauded Romelu Lukaku for his pivotal role in Napoli’s dominant 4-0 victory over Cagliari on Sunday, underscoring the Belgian striker’s importance to the club’s aspirations this season. The performance helped Napoli climb to the top of the Serie A table.
Lukaku, who was a prime target for Conte during the transfer window, showcased his value by scoring once and providing two assists in the match. Conte’s admiration for the striker’s unique attributes was clear as he spoke to Sky Sport Italia, highlighting Lukaku’s blend of physical prowess and speed.
“I have always said that I wanted Romelu at Inter Milan and had also requested him at Chelsea before he went to Manchester United because he is an atypical striker,” Conte said. “He is extremely tall and physically strong, but also very good at sprinting forward. His condition is still nowhere near optimal, but he becomes fundamental for us.”
Despite the emphatic win, Conte was not entirely satisfied and emphasized the need for continued improvement. The coach noted that Napoli’s momentum was briefly halted by a delay due to fireworks and thrown objects, and he pointed out areas where his team could enhance their performance.
“We started well, but we saw in the second half what we should’ve done better,” Conte explained. “We need to keep improving on the duels all over the field, keeping focused and concentrated because that is what you require in Serie A.”
Conte also played down suggestions that Napoli were ready to compete for the Scudetto, suggesting that the team is still in the process of finding its rhythm. “I do feel that at the moment all teams are settling down still, as the transfer window closed late and we are all trying to find our shape,” he said.
The coach emphasized that Napoli must stay focused on their development without being distracted by other teams’ performances. “We’ve worked hard over the last two and a half months, we’ve got to put on the blinkers and keep pushing forward without looking at anyone else,” he added.
With Lukaku playing a central role and Conte’s guidance, Napoli is poised to make significant strides this season, though the coach remains cautious about making bold predictions.