In-depth Analysis
Antonio Conte, born in Lecce, began his playing career at his hometown club, spending the first six years (1985–1991) there before becoming a Juventus legend. However, despite being a native son, Conte has never won the full affection of Lecce fans. The controversy began in August 1997, when he performed a sliding celebration after scoring the decisive goal in Juventus’ 2-0 win over Lecce.
Nine years later, in the final rounds of Serie B 2007/08, Conte again caused outrage by celebrating Bari’s victory on Lecce’s home ground. Ironically, Bari had nothing to play for, while the 2-1 defeat meant Lecce lost the chance for direct promotion. This incident has remained unforgiven by the hometown supporters, even though Conte has since become a successful coach.
Now, with Lecce struggling to avoid relegation, the prospect of Conte’s Napoli taking points at the Puglia club’s stadium only deepens the fans’ resentment. Yet, in reality, such a scenario will not be easy to achieve.
Lecce is currently managed by Eusebio Di Francesco, regarded as one of Italy’s “fallen heroes” in coaching. Over the past 15 years, Di Francesco is the only Italian coach to eliminate Barcelona in the Champions League without reaching the final. Other compatriots who have beaten Barca, like Carlo Ancelotti, Roberto Di Matteo, Simone Inzaghi, or Max Allegri, went on to reach the final and either win or finish as runner-up.
After being sacked by Roma in March 2019, Di Francesco mainly coached mid-table Serie A teams or top Serie B sides. This season could be considered his most successful in the past seven years, even though Lecce remains 16th, just three points above the relegation zone. Nevertheless, Lecce will fight with full determination to make Conte’s Napoli endure a difficult 90 minutes at their home ground.