Napoli on top for the first time since winning the championship: 'Worthy of the Scudetto'

Napoli’s return to the top of Serie A, after a 483-day hiatus, has reignited the excitement and optimism surrounding the club.

The last time Napoli was in such a position was during their triumphant 2022/23 season, when they claimed the Scudetto, ending a 33-year drought. The Italian media, particularly Tuttosport, have been quick to recognize the resurgence at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium. They noted that the team is once again showing the consistency needed to contend for the title, praising Napoli’s ability to recapture their championship form. The Naples faithful have responded in kind, with an electric atmosphere in the stadium, celebrating their team’s rise back to the summit of Italian football. "The Maradona stadium was ecstatic," one report read, as the fans dared to dream of another title run.

However, amidst the growing excitement, head coach Antonio Conte is doing his best to temper expectations. While acknowledging the team’s strong start, Conte insists it is far too early to be discussing the Scudetto. "Let the fans dream, but the reality is that it's too early to talk about a title," Conte stated. He was quick to point out both the advantages and disadvantages facing his side. Napoli’s absence from European competitions this season allows them the benefit of a full week to train and recover between matches. On the other hand, Conte noted, the squad lacks the depth of teams competing on multiple fronts. His words highlight a pragmatic approach, as the coach seeks to maintain focus and prevent complacency during the long and arduous Serie A campaign.

Conte’s cautious tone was echoed by Napoli left-back Mathias Olivera, who was similarly reserved in his comments. "We played a good match, but the most important thing is that we win," the Uruguayan said in an interview with Radio CRC. He stressed that while the early results are promising, it is still too soon to make any bold predictions. "We’ll see where we end up," Olivera added, as he focused on the upcoming challenge. On Friday, Napoli faces Como, a team that includes former Spain and Barcelona star Cesc Fabregas. Olivera warned that Como is a well-organized side, and Napoli will need to prepare thoroughly to secure a positive result.

Behind the scenes, Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis is staying true to his character, cryptically addressing the club’s success. Known for his outspoken nature, De Laurentiis chose a more reserved approach this time, taking to X (formerly Twitter) to share his thoughts. "Out of superstition, we won’t say anything yet," he posted, alluding to his belief in not tempting fate. While he refrains from making any grand statements, there is little doubt that De Laurentiis is pleased with the team’s form. His comments, or lack thereof, suggest a quiet confidence in the club’s direction, especially in comparison to the struggles of the previous season.

Last season was a stark contrast to Napoli’s current position. After winning the title in 2022/23, the club endured a disappointing campaign in which they set a negative record for the worst title defense in Italian football history. Their poor performances raised concerns about the team’s future, and there were doubts as to whether they could reclaim their form. However, with Conte now at the helm and the squad seemingly revitalized, those concerns have begun to fade.

Conte’s arrival has injected new life into the club, with tactical discipline and renewed energy evident in Napoli’s play. The team’s solid start to the season has seen them secure key victories, including a 2-0 win over Monza that propelled them to the top of the league. Conte’s leadership has been instrumental in this turnaround, and his ability to get the best out of his players is being hailed as a key factor in their early success. However, the Italian tactician remains cautious, reminding everyone that Napoli’s journey is just beginning.

As Napoli looks ahead, the immediate focus is on maintaining their strong form and avoiding the pitfalls that derailed their previous season. The match against Como presents another opportunity to extend their lead at the top, but as Conte and Olivera have pointed out, there is no room for complacency. With the season still in its early stages, Napoli’s ultimate goal remains a long way off, and the competition in Serie A is fierce.

For the fans, the dream of another Scudetto is alive, and the possibility of reclaiming the title has brought a sense of optimism back to Naples. While Conte and the players may downplay the talk of a championship for now, the excitement is palpable. If Napoli can continue their current trajectory, the possibility of lifting the Scudetto once again is no longer a distant dream but a very real prospect. All eyes will be on the club as they navigate the challenges ahead, with the hope that their "Scudetto-worthy consistency" can carry them through the season and lead to another historic triumph.