Sparks - Conte about KDB: "He has a problem with the wrong person"

While Napoli were stringing together wins in Serie A, everything seemed idyllic. But with the first defeat came the first sparks — between coach Antonio Conte and the team’s star player, Kevin De Bruyne.

The Belgian halved Milan’s lead at San Siro from the penalty spot, but after Napoli spent about twenty minutes unsuccessfully trying to create a chance to equalize, Conte decided to make some changes. And he subbed off De Bruyne — something the Manchester City legend didn’t take well at all.

As he walked toward the bench, he angrily muttered something at Conte, clearly unhappy with the substitution. His reaction became one of the unavoidable talking points at the Italian coach’s press conference.

“I tried to bring in some ‘fresh legs’ since Milan had tightened up, and we needed something different. I believe those were the right changes at that moment,” Conte said at the press conference before commenting on De Bruyne’s displeasure: “I hope he was upset with the result, because if he was upset with something else, then he has a problem with the wrong person,” Conte added in his trademark style.

Even with the clash on the sidelines, De Bruyne’s standing in Naples hasn’t really been shaken. The Belgian playmaker had already won over supporters and the press during preseason, and his start to the campaign has been impressive — three goals in six official outings underline his immediate impact.

Still, it’s unclear if the flashpoint at San Siro will leave a lasting mark. Conte is known for his strict principles and willingness to enforce them, no matter the stature of the player. What comes next between him and De Bruyne will be closely watched.

Devils are awake again – Milan on top of Serie A!

As for Napoli, the 2-1 loss was their first setback in Serie A this term — and it carried weight in the standings. Milan’s victory sent them to the top of the league, while Roma drew level on points, with both clubs now sitting on 12.