Napoli president warns Lukaku and De Bruyne after public criticisms

Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis warned his squad that no player is untouchable after public outbursts aimed at former coach Antonio Conte, saying he is prepared to sanction sales this summer. "They have made statements that are either acceptable or unacceptable depending on your point of view," he said, adding: "There are plenty of footballers in the world." Kevin De Bruyne openly celebrated Conte’s departure and endured a difficult debut season in Italy, hampered by a serious hamstring injury and tactical disagreements.

The Belgian made only 18 Serie A appearances and said: "For me, yes. As far as I am concerned, he was not obliged to stay... In truth, I never had the opportunity to play in my preferred position." Romelu Lukaku’s situation has also become precarious after he defied club orders during injury rehab in Belgium and was fined €150,000; he has since apologised.

Napoli are reportedly ready to sell him this summer for a cut-price €10 million amid Saudi and Turkish interest.

Italy, Napoli

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