Anguissa Talks about Conte’s Desired Work Ethic and 2025 Objectives
Andre-Frank Anguissa is already a Napoli legend and one of the most influential players in the team’s squad. Recently, the midfielder discussed the influence that manager Antonio Conte has had on his playing style. Anguissa also revealed the team’s objectives and the influence of the club’s recent transfers.
The interview was conducted after the Udinese game by CRC, the official radio partner of SSC Napoli. It’s a revealing look at the team’s evolution under Antonio Conte.
Napoli midfielder Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa revealed how manager Antonio Conte’s relentless demands and tactical approach have transformed the squad’s mindset. After scoring a crucial goal in Napoli’s recent victory, Anguissa emphasized that for him, personal success always takes a back seat:
“It is a style that we try in training, just as we try many other things. I’m glad I scored and did it with a win. When I play, I don’t think about scoring goals; the most important thing is that the team wins. The coach tells me I need to score more—eight goals per season even—but the priority is the team. I’m happy when I score, but the team comes first.”
Conte’s presence on the bench has reinvigorated Napoli after a turbulent period. Known for demanding 200% from his players, Conte pushes them both tactically and personally. Anguissa praised his manager’s work ethic:
“Conte asks me not to be lazy. He’s a fantastic coach; I can’t say anything different. He always asks for 200% for our services. You need to have personality and the right quality to do what the coach asks. With Spalletti, it was the same, and now it is with Conte. Today, he told me to score more, and I tell myself to do what he asks.”
Focus on Genoa and Vieira Reunion
As Napoli prepares for their match against Genoa, Anguissa acknowledged the importance of staying focused on their own game rather than getting ahead of themselves:
“The important thing is to focus on our games and the tactical setup we prepare with the coach. This can change the game. We need to decide the game—Saturday will be a match we play to win.”
On Genoa’s coach, Patrick Vieira, Anguissa spoke warmly:
“I really like him as a man; we also met in London. He was the coach at Crystal Palace and wanted me there. I like talking to him because he has so many ideas and is a good person. It will be a pleasure to see him on the Genoa bench, but I still hope we win the game.”
Unity and Defense: The Secret to Napoli’s Success
Napoli’s defensive improvement comes from a collective effort rather than individual brilliance, a philosophy Conte has instilled deeply in the squad:
“Conte thinks a lot about the defensive aspect, but not just the department. It’s the whole team that defends and attacks together. His philosophy has always been this way: let’s try together, from Lukaku to Meret, to defend together.”
Lobotka, Gilmour, and McTominay: A Special Team Dynamic
Anguissa highlighted his appreciation for teammate Stanislav Lobotka, describing him as a calming presence on and off the pitch:
“As a person, I love him. He never speaks, but he’s calm and fearless on the field. It’s easy to play with players like him. We are all friends, but with him, it is special.”
He also praised players like Billy Gilmour and Scott McTominay, noting their quality and strong personalities:
“They are two strong players and excellent people. After football, there is life. Scott has so much quality; he scores goals and always helps the team. Gilmour, I think, needs to play more. We are a team where we help each other a lot—even those who play less.”
Under Conte’s leadership, Napoli are slowly rediscovering their best form, with Anguissa’s words reflecting a team ready to fight for every point, united on and off the field.