Noa Lang, Napoli`s newest recruit, has disclosed the conversation he had with head coach Antonio Conte prior to finalizing his transfer from PSV. He also shared with reporters that he`s already picking up Italian words during his initial training sessions, notably `stanco` (tired).
Earlier this week, Lang officially completed his transfer to Napoli from PSV in a deal valued at €28 million, comprising €25 million plus an additional €3 million in performance-related add-ons.
At 26 years old, Lang marks Napoli`s third summer signing, following the earlier acquisitions of Kevin De Bruyne and Luca Marianucci. His arrival precedes that of Lorenzo Lucca, who joined on loan from Udinese with an option for a permanent transfer.
On Sunday, Lang participated in his inaugural press conference, addressing inquiries about his playing style, his aspirations with the Partenopei, and even his musical pursuits outside of football.
Lang Discusses Napoli Transfer and Conte`s Influence
During Sunday`s press conference, Lang disclosed that `stanco` (tired) is the first Italian word he has learned since arriving, a direct result of experiencing Conte`s famously rigorous pre-season training regimen.
“My first Italian word is `stanco`,” Lang stated when questioned about his initial training days in Campania.
He commented on the intensity of the training sessions, noting, “I believe the training sessions are demanding. In Holland, even pre-season primarily involves ball work, focusing solely on touching the ball.”
In contrast, he added, “Here, there`s a significant amount of running. I feel it`s beneficial for me to step out of my comfort zone. I was comfortable in Holland, and now it`s genuinely time to dedicate myself to hard work and strive to become the best player possible.”
Lang subsequently disclosed the advice Conte gave him prior to his decision to transfer from PSV to Napoli.
Lang clarified his ambition to enhance his tactical and defensive capabilities, expressing his belief that Conte is the ideal coach to help him achieve this.
“My first conversation with Mister Conte immediately revolved around tactics,” he recounted. “That discussion actually took place before I made the decision to join Napoli. I believe he will significantly assist my development. From the very first moment we spoke, his focus was directly on tactics and defending, so I feel confident about our progress.”
