May 24 (Reuters) - Antonio Conte announced ⁠his departure as Napoli head coach on Sunday after guiding the ⁠team to a 1-0 home victory over Udinese in the final match ‌of the Serie A season.

The 56-year-old confirmed the decision at a press conference alongside Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis after the match. Having joined the club in July 2024, he won the ​league title in his debut campaign as well as ⁠this season's Italian Super Cup.

Conte's ⁠final match was settled by a 23rd-minute goal from striker Rasmus Hojlund, securing a ⁠second-place ‌finish in the league table for the hosts behind Inter Milan.

The former Italy and Chelsea manager revealed he had initiated the exit talks ⁠based on his relationship with the club’s owner.

"I rang ​the chairman a month ‌ago... and told him, 'Given the friendship we share, I feel that my ⁠time here is ​coming to an end.' The decision was mine," Conte told reporters. "I’ve never been one for mediocre seasons, and I never will be."

Reflecting on the turning point of his decision ⁠following a loss to Bologna this month, Conte ​cited friction over January signings and internal squad dynamics.

"I saw situations there that I did not like," Conte said. "Certainly some new signings arrived in January while the old ⁠group and I were in very difficult dynamics. There came a moment when it was right to speak out and take responsibility.

"I failed at one thing in Naples: I was unable to bring everyone together," Conte added. "I saw too much ​poison, too much malice. The moment you can no ⁠longer do things with ease is a step backwards for me."

Conte is a ​frontrunner to take over as Italy manager, local media ‌reported.

"There is satisfaction, honour and prestige in ​what I achieved coaching Naples. I thank De Laurentiis for giving me this opportunity."

(Reporting by Tommy Lund in Gdansk, editing by Ed Osmond)