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Antonio Conte admitted that Napoli are not accustomed to the fixture congestion and don’t have a well-oiled squad like most of the prominent teams to compete in the Champions League.
Following a heavy defeat against Manchester City in their Champions League opener, Napoli responded by scrapping out a 3-2 win against newcomers Pisa in Serie A.
Billy Gilmour drew the first blood for the Partneopei, but M’Bala Nzola cancelled it from the penalty spot, following Sam Beukema’s handball.
Goals from Leonardo Spinazzola and summer signing Lorenzo Lucca put the Serie A champions in the front, but they had to avert a late threat from the visitors to secure three points, with Lorran pulling one back.
The victory extended their perfect record in Serie A with four wins in four games. Napoli also moved two points clear at the top of the table, ahead of Juventus, who were held to a draw against Verona over the weekend.
Conte was proud of his team’s efforts to get away with a win against a physically challenging side.
“Today we played against a team that is physically first in everything, which shows they’re strong,” the Italian gaffer told Sky Sport Italia. “It wasn’t easy, especially because the moment you leave the field open, it becomes difficult with these players. We struggled a bit in the first half , but with these points, we’re making hay in the barn , and there’s certainly satisfaction with the four wins in a championship that will be very balanced.”
Conte stressed that the Partenopei are not on par with top European sides capable of competing for more silverware despite an influx of signings in the summer.
“Unlike other teams, we don’t have a squad that’s already well-oiled to compete in all competitions,” added Conte.
“We have new players who find themselves wearing a heavy jersey, with high expectations. We don’t have a well-oiled squad, we need to get better during the match. There are guys who need to grow and raise their level.”
“We’ve brought in a lot of players; the big transfer market is another matter. This season will be the most complex for us because we’ve brought in so many new players from different backgrounds.
“We need to wait, be patient, and accept mistakes . Compared to those who consistently play in Europe, we’re not as well-rounded; playing every three or four days brings physical and mental stress.”
Napoli’s dismal start to the UCL has sparked concerns over their European aspirations, while further underlining Conte’s poor record in European games.
In contrast, the Neapolitans look like the favourites to defend their Serie A crown after an impeccable start to the season.
They will next face AC Milan away in Serie A before a crucial Champions League tie against Sporting.