Napoli head coach Antonio Conte has delivered a scathing critique of Ruben Amorim, accusing the former Manchester United manager of arrogance for his handling of Rasmus Højlund before the Danish striker was loaned out of Old Trafford. Conte did not hide his frustration, suggesting that United’s decision to marginalize the 22-year-old forward reflected a deeper failure to nurture young talent rather than any lack of quality on the player’s part.
Højlund’s move to Napoli came in September, shortly after Manchester United reinforced their attacking options by signing three new forwards during the summer transfer window. With competition for places intensified, the Danish international found himself pushed down the pecking order and ultimately sent out on loan to Serie A. The decision effectively ended a difficult chapter in his United career, which had never quite lived up to expectations following his high-profile £72 million transfer from Atalanta.
During his two seasons in England, Højlund struggled to consistently find rhythm and confidence in a United side plagued by instability. Despite flashes of promise, he managed 26 goals in 95 appearances across all competitions, a return that was frequently scrutinized given his hefty price tag. Critics argued he lacked composure, while others pointed to the absence of a clear tactical structure around him. Whatever the interpretation, his time at Old Trafford was widely viewed as frustrating for both player and club.
Since returning to Italy, however, Højlund’s fortunes have improved. Under Conte’s guidance at Napoli, the striker has rediscovered his confidence and become a more effective presence in the final third. He has scored nine goals in 25 appearances so far, contributing to Napoli’s efforts to retain the Scudetto and remain competitive in the Champions League. Conte has repeatedly highlighted the importance of trust, structure, and hard work in helping Højlund rediscover his strengths.
Speaking ahead of Napoli’s narrow 1–0 victory over Sassuolo on Saturday, Conte was asked about Højlund’s development and did not hesitate to reference his former manager at United. Amorim, who was dismissed by the club earlier this month, became the target of Conte’s criticism as the Italian questioned the modern coaching mentality he believes is increasingly common.
Conte argued that many young coaches lack humility and adaptability, choosing instead to deflect responsibility when results fail to meet expectations. In his view, struggling young players are often blamed rather than properly coached. He suggested that instead of investing time in developing talent, some managers prefer to complain and point fingers, shielding themselves from accountability. Conte implied that such attitudes are encouraged by environments where success and opportunity are too easily handed out, rather than earned through experience and resilience.
This was not the first time Conte had taken a swipe at Manchester United over their handling of players now thriving at Napoli. Just last month, he questioned United’s decisions regarding both Højlund and Scott McTominay, the latter having joined Napoli in August 2024. Conte recalled how both players were frequently criticized for not playing or performing well in Manchester, urging observers to reflect on the broader context. He emphasized that Napoli’s coaching staff had significant work to do upon their arrivals, reinforcing the idea that improvement does not happen by accident.
Financially, the deal that brought Højlund to Naples already appears close to becoming permanent. Napoli paid United a €6 million loan fee, and the agreement includes an obligation to buy for €44 million should the club qualify for next season’s Champions League. Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manna has played down any uncertainty, recently describing the permanent transfer as little more than a formality. According to Manna, both the club and the player already view the arrangement as long-term, underscoring Højlund’s growing sense of belonging in Italy.
While Højlund has yet to score in the early months of 2026, expectations remain high that his form will soon return. He will be particularly eager to open his account when Napoli travel to Denmark for a crucial Champions League clash against Copenhagen at Parken. With only two games remaining in the league phase, the match carries major significance. Copenhagen currently occupy the final playoff position, with Napoli sitting just one place above them on goal difference, leaving little margin for error.
As Napoli push forward on both domestic and European fronts, Conte’s comments have reignited debate about Manchester United’s recent decision-making and the treatment of young players under pressure. For Højlund, the contrast between his struggles in England and his gradual resurgence in Italy serves as a powerful reminder that development often depends as much on guidance and belief as it does on raw talent.
