Conte channels Mourinho after Napoli's Coppa Italia exit: a playful touchline duel
11 February 2026
Conte channels Mourinho after Napoli's Coppa Italia exit
The Italian coach borrowed a page from Jose Mourinho's playbook after Napoli bowed out of the Coppa Italia.
Napoli were eliminated by Como on penalties after a 1-1 draw on Tuesday night, with the shootout ending 7-6 in Como's favor.
Conte, proud of what Napoli have achieved over the last 18 months, even dropped a nod to Mourinho in a light, indirect way.
Napoli had won the Serie A title last season and lifted the Super Cup, but exited the Coppa Italia and also failed to advance in the Champions League. They sit third in Serie A, nine points behind leaders Inter.
What did Mourinho do? Only history knows, but Conte's gesture spoke volumes: he flashed a zero on his right hand and a two on his left, a playful jab at the "Special One" line.
According to Football Italia, Conte thanked the fans for recognizing the team's efforts: “We have two years, and we have won the league and the Super Cup; that is an achievement not to forget.”
Conte then signed off with a witty note: “From now on, every press conference will start with a salute to clubs that never win trophies, as one manager used to say.”
Napoli remain third in Serie A, nine points behind Inter, with more league games to come this season.
And the punchline, a light jab at the trend: “If I keep doing these impressions, maybe Mourinho should charge me royalties.”
Punchlines: If Conte keeps copying Mourinho, Mourinho might bill him for the reruns. Also, the touchline is less a bench and more a comedy club these days.
