Conte calls Frankfurt's defense a masterclass in caution: Napoli's clash sparks tactical debate

Conte's take on Frankfurt's tactics

Napoli coach Antonio Conte believes Eintracht Frankfurt learned Italian catenaccio after the goalless draw in the UEFA Champions League at the Maradona on Tuesday, the fourth group-stage match of the campaign.

Conte criticized the German side's defensive approach, arguing that if Napoli had played the same way in Germany, "everyone would be talking about it".

In an interview with Sky Sport Italia, he stated: "A German team learned Italian catenaccio. Let’s just say they were a bit cautious."

He added that people talk about attacking football and European football, and that Napoli respects all styles. If they played the same way in Germany, people would discuss old-school football, catenaccio, and counter-attacks.

Conte emphasized there is broad respect, but Napoli sees themselves as capable teachers, aiming to move forward on the pitch, deliver engaging performances, dominate matches, and leave a strong impression.

He also lamented the crowded schedule this season compared with last year, saying the team must adapt to a new routine.

Napoli faced Frankfurt without several players due to injuries and suspensions: Romelo Lukaku, Alex Meret, Kevin De Bruyne, Leonardo Spinazzola and Billy Gilmore were sidelined; Lorenzo Luca was suspended, with Luka Marianotti and Pasquale Mazzucci not included in Napoli's Champions League squad.

Conte insisted there were meaningful chances, but he could not fault the players' spirit and commitment, noting they were finishing a seven-match run and seeking fresh solutions.

He warned that preparing for one game every three days has become tougher for players and medical staff, and for him as well, given injuries and health issues. He stressed it’s not fair to itemize absentees, yet believes the squad remains in very good shape.

Conte noted De Bruyne's absence had been felt and that midfield options were limited, forcing him to find a solution with Elmas.

He added that this season demands adaptation not only on the pitch but off it as well; players do not train in the same way, so Napoli must manage them in the best possible manner across all aspects.

Conte concluded that the players gave their best. He cited promising chances and improvement after halftime, and highlighted Makhtominay and Hojlund as potential positives; had Napoli converted a few chances, the result might have been 3-0, illustrating the ambition to grow this season with a fuller fixture list ahead.

Ghoulam's critique

Faouzi Ghoulam, Napoli’s former star, criticized the side after the draw, warning they will not reach the next round without creating more attacking opportunities.

Speaking to Sky Italia, Ghoulam said, "In my view, Napoli did not offer much to hope for victory. Eintracht Frankfurt were a bit strange because they came here to defend."

He added that Napoli dominated possession at roughly 70%, but struggled to carve out clear chances; they did create some opportunities, but not enough at this level to advance.

Ghoulam praised Anguissa, calling him Napoli's standout and saying he, along with MakTominay, were among the most dangerous in midfield; the forwards, in contrast, did not deliver.

He argued Napoli maintained a calm rhythm, which allowed Frankfurt to time-waste with their goalkeeper around the 30th minute. They have lost 5-1 in their last two matches, a pattern that Conte and his staff will be hoping to reverse.

Napoli's campaign context

The campaign opened with a 2-0 away defeat to Manchester City, before a 2-1 home win over Sporting Lisbon; the shock came with a 6-2 loss to Eindhoven, followed by a goalless draw with Frankfurt.

Over four Champions League games, Napoli have 1 win, 1 draw, 2 losses, scored 4 goals and conceded 9, amassing 4 points and sitting 21st in the group standings.