Politano: ‘This is how Conte improved me as a player’

Matteo Politano outlines how Antonio Conte has ‘improved me as a player,’ while he hopes Napoli and Italy can ‘get back to winning ways’ soon.

The 32-year-old winger has been with the Partenopei since January 2020, winning two Serie A titles and breaking back into the Italy squad.

Both his teams are currently going through a bit of a crisis, as the Azzurri lost 4-1 at home to Norway and are heading into a tense 2026 World Cup play-off in March, while Napoli dropped off the top of the Serie A table.

Politano facing tough times for Napoli and Italy

“We dominated the first half against Norway, but dropped the intensity levels after the break and their qualities came out,” Politano told Radio CRC via the Corriere dello Sport.

“We will wait for tomorrow’s draw and must then prepare in the best way so that we can qualify for the World Cup. There is no alternative, we’ve got to give our all in those two games, for all of Italy.”

Meanwhile, he returns to club football and Napoli need to shake off their 2-0 defeat at Bologna, which was only the latest in a series of sluggish performances for the reigning Champions of Italy.

“Along with the coach, we will analyse the mistakes that were made so that we can go forward. It’s still a long season ahead of us and the next month is going to be crucial,” continued Politano.

“We’ve got to see the best Napoli in every game. Atalanta are a strong opponent and will be making their debut under a new coach, so they’ll certainly be fired up.”

Politano’s tactical versatility has come in handy when switching from a 4-3-3 formation under Luciano Spalletti to the 3-5-2 with Conte.

How has working with the current boss improved his game?

“Conte absolutely improved me as a player, above all in the importance of the spirit of sacrifice.”

Although he is originally from Rome, there are plenty of reasons why Politano feels settled at Napoli, signing a new contract to June 2028.

“I married a Neapolitan woman, so I have been adopted by this city. It is my second home, and my family often comes to visit. I don’t know what will happen in the long run, but I am focused on the present.

“I urge our fans to stand by us, especially during the difficult moments, and we hope to get back to winning ways from Saturday.”