Conte Praises ‘Complete Player’ McTominay and Rising Star Hojlund
Antonio Conte has praised Scott McTominay as a “complete player” and highlighted the progress of Rasmus Hojlund, who has “improved a lot” since joining Napoli. While McTominay excelled during his debut season, winning the Scudetto and the Serie A MVP award, Hojlund is seen as a promising talent with room for growth.
McTominay’s Rise in Naples
Scott McTominay, the former Manchester United midfielder, has made a significant impact in Naples. In his inaugural season, he scored 12 goals, earning him a Ballon d’Or nomination. His performance has been pivotal in helping Scotland qualify for their first World Cup since 1998. Currently, he is tied as Napoli’s top scorer alongside Hojlund, with nine goals this season.
Conte’s Assessment
Conte emphasized McTominay’s development over the past year and a half. “He has become a complete player,” he stated, noting his enhanced skills in both offensive and defensive play. Working alongside Stanislav Lobotka, McTominay has demonstrated his capability to contribute both in attack and during the build-up phase.
Hojlund’s Potential
Rasmus Hojlund, just 22 years old, joined Napoli on deadline day after a challenging season at Manchester United. Conte believes Hojlund is still evolving as a player, stating, “He has a lot of space for improvement.” The coach highlighted both players’ importance to the team, particularly as Napoli faces challenges in the Champions League.
Upcoming Clash with Chelsea
Napoli is set to face Chelsea in a crucial UEFA Champions League match, which Conte characterized as essential for their progression. Currently struggling in the league with just one win in their last six games, Napoli needs a positive result to avoid early elimination from the tournament.
- McTominay: 12 goals last season, MVP award.
- Current season: 9 goals, joint top-scorer.
- Hojlund: Joined Napoli after a tough stint at United.
- Both players contribute significantly to the team.
McTominay remarked on the pressure of the upcoming Chelsea game, calling it “do or die.” He expressed the team’s need to solidify their standing in the Champions League and their desire to progress confidently.
Fan Support in Naples
The admiration McTominay has received from fans in Naples is evident, with the player mentioning murals and a shrine dedicated to him. His ability to connect with the local community shows his impact beyond the pitch. “Walking around the city is incredible,” he shared. “It’s hard to do more because of our schedule, but the recognition is amazing.”
Broadcast Information
Football fans can watch the upcoming Napoli vs. Chelsea match live on TNT Sports. The match will be accessible through various platforms, ensuring a wide audience can support their teams.
