Ruben Amorim (foto: Getty Images)
Napoli coach Antonio Conte has offered a pointed critique of youth management, using Rasmus Højlund’s revival as a clear contrast to his treatment at Manchester United.
Antonio Conte has delivered a sharp — if indirect — critique of Ruben Amorim, using Rasmus Hojlund as a clear point of reference.
Speaking about Højlund’s resurgence since joining Napoli, Conte underlined how young attackers struggle to reach their potential without structured coaching and patience — remarks widely interpreted in Italy as criticism of Højlund’s treatment at Manchester United.
Højlund arrived in Naples last September on loan with an obligation to buy, triggered by specific conditions. At United, Amorim had made it clear shortly after his appointment that the Danish striker was not part of his long-term plans, accelerating the move to Serie A.
United had signed Højlund from Atalanta just a year earlier for €83 million, but his time at Old Trafford proved difficult. He managed only four Premier League goals last season and struggled to adapt to the tactical environment.
A very different story in Naples
In Italy, the narrative has changed completely. Under Conte, Højlund has rediscovered the qualities that once made him one of Europe’s most coveted young strikers. This season, the 22-year-old has already recorded nine goals and three assists, becoming a key figure in Napoli’s attacking setup.
“Rasmus is a player who has improved enormously since arriving,” Conte explained. “He’s 22, he has huge potential, but these boys need coaches who know how to develop them — teaching them how to work for the team, positioning, when to drop deep and when to attack space.”
Conte added that the responsibility of the coaching staff is clear: players should be better at the end of the season than they were at the beginning.
Silverware and long-term plans
Højlund has already lifted his first trophy with Napoli, winning the Italian Super Cup. He scored and assisted in the semi-final against AC Milan, before contributing to the final victory over Bologna.
Napoli are keen to make the move permanent. Sporting director Giovanni Manna has stated that completing the transfer for the 2026/27 season should be a formality once all contractual conditions are met.
For Conte, Højlund’s progress is not just a success story — but a statement on how young talent should be handled at the highest level.