Lang reveals Conte behind Napoli exit: ‘I didn’t get along with him’
Noa Lang has admitted that his difficult relationship with Antonio Conte played a major role in his early departure from Napoli.
The Dutch winger, who has just joined Galatasaray, reflected on his six-month spell in Serie A during an appearance on ESPN Netherlands’ Transfer Deadline Show.
Lang struggled for regular playing time after arriving from PSV and completed a January move away from the Stadio Maradona.
While he showed brief signs of continuity between November and December, Lang described his overall experience in Naples as disappointing and pointed to a lack of understanding with his coach.
“How can I explain it simply? I didn’t get along with the coach,” Lang said, with quotes via Goal.
“Let’s leave it at that. I know that in the Netherlands people often think it’s my fault, but one day everything will be clear. For now, I have a lot of respect for the club I’m under contract with. I have a good relationship with almost everyone at the club.”
Lang: ‘World Cup’ made decision to leave Napoli easy
Lang also admitted he was initially reluctant to leave Napoli so soon after joining.
He had only completed a move from PSV in the summer but struggled to make an impact on the Napoli team.
“Honestly, it took me some time. The size of the club speaks for itself, but I’m not someone who wants to leave after just six months.”
The Dutchman claimed many of his teammates did not want him to go but he felt that it was the right decision for ihm.
“Nine out of ten people didn’t want me to leave. I was well integrated into the group and trained well every day, but when I did get to play, people spoke badly about me. I didn’t agree at all. In terms of playing style, I did well. At least, I think so.”
Lang ended with a pointed remark about how he felt he had been treated.
“You have to be treated fairly, and I didn’t feel that at all. At first I wanted to fight and thought I would stay. But there’s a World Cup coming this summer, so that decision was mainly based on that.”