Conte defends Hojlund as Man Utd loanee's Napoli goal drought continues

SSC Napoli v Bologna FC 1909 - Serie A

Antonio Conte has leaped to the defence of Rasmus Hojlund after the Manchester United loanee failed to find the net during Napoli's damaging 3-2 defeat against Bologna. Despite providing an assist in the comeback attempt at the Stadio Maradona, the Danish striker remains under scrutiny for a lack of goals during the final stretch of the season.

Stunned at the Maradona

Napoli’s pursuit of a guaranteed top-four finish suffered a significant blow as Bologna secured a dramatic victory in Naples on Monday. Missing key figures like Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku, the Partenopei fell two goals behind early on before staging a spirited recovery through Giovanni Di Lorenzo and Alisson Santos. However, an acrobatic late volley from Jonathan Rowe condemned Conte’s side to defeat, leaving their Champions League qualification status in doubt with only two Serie A fixtures remaining.

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Conte backs lone striker

Speaking to DAZN after the final whistle, Conte was quick to protect Hojlund from criticism regarding his modest tally of 10 goals in 31 league appearances this season. He said: "Let's not forget that he's the only striker we have in the squad; he's always playing. This season, we should have had the opportunity to rest him and bring him on during the game. He has so much energy. There are times when you have to attack the depth and others when you have to protect the ball."

Room for improvement

Despite a six-game goal drought, Hojlund demonstrated his value by providing his fourth Serie A assist of the campaign for Santos’ equaliser. Conte remains adamant that the 23-year-old’s workload and age are vital factors to consider when evaluating his performance. The manager added: "He has excellent qualities, he's only 23 and has significant room for improvement. We can't say anything about him at all."

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Crucial season finale

Napoli face a high-pressure trip to Pisa on Sunday, where they must secure a victory to keep their top-four ambitions alive. Following that, they return home to host Udinese in the final match of the campaign, a game that could define their European status for next year. Conte will be desperate for his side to rediscover their defensive solidity after conceding three at home, while Hojlund remains the primary hope for goals amidst a depleted attacking department.