Agent: ‘Don’t bench Gabbiadini’

Manolo Gabbiadini’s agent warns Napoli risk losing the striker if he’s constantly on the bench.

The Italian international joined the Partenopei from Sampdoria in January, and contributed eight goals and an assist in the second half of the season.

Despite this, 12 of his 20 appearances were from the bench, and the player’s representative warns that situation cannot continue this term.

Manolo Gabbiadini’s agent warns Napoli risk losing the striker if he’s constantly on the bench.

The Italian international joined the Partenopei from Sampdoria in January, and contributed eight goals and an assist in the second half of the season.

Despite this, 12 of his 20 appearances were from the bench, and the player’s representative warns that situation cannot continue this term.

“Manolo is fired up and aware of how important the coming season is, because there’s the European Championships at the end,” Silvio Pagliari told Radio Crc.

“In recent friendlies I’ve seen some rotation in attack, and that concerns me a little bit, because I wouldn’t want him sitting on the bench.

“The lad is respectful of the role he’s given, and I wouldn’t want him to always sit on the bench, if that’s the case it’s better they tell us now, given there’s a long way to go in the transfer window, and we can take away any issues.

“After six months at Napoli, he’s proven his value and that cannot be called into question.

“I wasn’t thrilled to see him on the bench, maybe I’m biased. I don’t know if that’s normal for you, but for me it’s far from normal.

“I know they were friendlies, but I’ve already told the club that the player is approaching an important season, and Napoli have already rejected big offers for the lad.

“Gabbiadini scored 20 goals [in all competitions] last season, the only Italian striker who did, he deserves respect [Luca Toni managed 22 Serie A goals].

“Manolo is usually ignored in favour of those who are adored by the media.

“Napoli? They’ve said how much they value Manolo, but he needs to be on the pitch too. I’d love to see Gabbiadini more often on that green rectangle.

“I repeat, this is too important a year to make any mistakes. It’s an opportunity not to miss for Napoli, playing in three competitions, and for Manolo too.

“No-one imagines a Napoli without Gabbiadini, but I regret to say, like in the past, when we make choices the player has to be considered one of the top guys.”