Noa Lang under fire after hand gesture, analyst urges self-criticism

Noa Lang receives another strong rebuke from the Dutch press. The former flavour‑maker of Club Brugge is under fire after his clash with Napoli’s own supporters. Analyst Theo Janssen did not hold back and says the Dutch player should look critically at himself. For a long time on Sunday during the 1-1 draw with Lazio, the Dutch side was booed by its own supporters. The incident was discussed at length. The attacker responded by holding his hand behind his ear, as if he could not hear the whistling. That caused even more discontent in the stands.

Analysts and teammates react

The incident was discussed extensively. Robin Pröpper still had understanding for Lang’s reaction, but Janssen saw it differently. “It’s not that it’s a one‑off for him. It is something that keeps recurring. He has so many qualities, but it just doesn’t come out,” judged the former midfielder.

Janssen believes that with his talent Lang should actually always be a regular starter. According to him, however, the attacker often gets in his own way. “He should basically just be a starter. He spoils it with his playfulness and his behaviour.”

Wesley Sneijder also responded cynically to the hand gesture towards the Napoli supporters. The incident did not remain without consequences.

Napoli captain Amir Rrahmani warned Lang during the match that he had to watch out. The Dutchman already had a yellow card in his pocket and, according to his teammate, also provoked the referee. Coach Massimiliano Allegri also called on him afterwards to take more responsibility.

Sportingly, Lang was nevertheless important: he provided a cross that contributed to Napoli’s equaliser.