In Naples, not only has serenity returned, but it seems that the idyll between De Laurentiis and Conte is destined to continue to the bitter end.
The president wants to extend the agreement with the coach for another two years, as reported by Il Mattino and Repubblica. Antonio would therefore remain until 2029 and no longer until 2027. This is ADL's idea, the coach's idea needs to be understood. Of course, from Bologna (defeat in the league) to Bologna (victory in the Italian Super Cup final) it seems like a century has passed, between discontent, smart working and farewell rumours.
De Laurentiis, to be honest, has always defended the coach and, after the final in Riyadh, he continued to reiterate how fundamental Conte's work is. "Why, did you have doubts about him?", was the mantra he addressed to journalists as the players were preparing to lift the Cup. But does Antonio want to stay? His history tells us that only once has he been in a club, including the national team, for more than two years: in Juventus 2011-2014. For the rest, it has always closed earlier. There are those who assure that he wants to take back his place as head coach after the World Cup (if there is one for the Azzurri). In any case, after Gattuso's management. However, we will have to evaluate the results that Rino will be able to achieve. If he takes Italy to Canada-Mexico-USA and then to an honorable quarter-final, it will be complicated for the football federation to say goodbye to him.
But these are scenarios still to be evaluated. What is certain is the fact that, even if many people dislike him, Conte is one of the best coaches in the world. The results speak for him and this season, made up of a squad that is difficult to assemble, chain injuries and defeats complicated to digest, is proving that a coach, when he is really good, knows how to find the best solution even in the midst of so many difficulties. Of course, he has a high-level group but he arrived in Riyadh without De Bruyne, Anguissa, Meret and Gilmour, while Lukaku limited himself to watching his teammates win. He has changed at least three systems of play since the beginning of the season, always adapting to those who were there. So much for the fundamentalist. He has maintained certain principles that are part of his tactical creed and that can be seen regardless of formation and interpreters, such as the search for depth and the quick insertions on the work of the striker.
In addition, the players have publicly expressed their deep esteem, see Politano in Riyadh. It is normal that De Laurentiis wants to armor him, to be evaluated if he also wants to be armored.