Conte applauds rivalry jibe with Napoli

Juventus coach Antonio Conte feels Napoli should be proud that other clubs dislike them as it shows they are being taken seriously.

Bianconeri midfielder Claudio Marchisio revealed earlier this week that he does not like Napoli, but Conte says the Italy international’s comments should be taken as a compliment.

“Marchisio was obviously referring to the sporting rivalry between Juventus and Napoli. It is only normal to have a certain rivalry between big clubs. They probably feel the same about us,” he told a press conference.

“Napoli should be proud to have our antipathy rather than get upset about it as it means that they have joined the group of big clubs of Juventus, Inter and AC Milan that have certain feelings of rivalry.”

Conte, 45, then looked ahead to this weekend’s Serie A match against Parma, and insisted that the Bianconeri will do their utmost to return to winning ways in the league.

“We’re determined to get back on course in the championship following last weekend’s reverse. I’m sure we’ll see a good game, contested by two sides who will both be pushing for the win.

“Parma go into the encounter on the back of four straight successes and have yet to lose a game at home. We know it’s a difficult venue to go to and that they will want to put on a good show.”

Juventus lead the Serie A with 44 points from 19 games.