Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis dedicated the Coppa Italia to the fan who was shot in Rome today.
Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis dedicated the Coppa Italia to the fan who was shot in Rome today.
“We dedicate this win to the city of Naples, including the Neapolitan who was unfortunately involved in a shooting incident and we thank the authorities who rushed him to hospital and saved his life,” ADL told Rai Sport.
The start of the 3-1 victory over Fiorentina was delayed by 45 minutes while captain Marek Hamsik and police exchanged information with the ultras.
Rumours had spread that a Neapolitan who was shot in the city had died, but those proved to be unfounded and police assure the shooting was unrelated to the game.
“At that moment I focused only on verifying with the authorities how we could ensure the game would go ahead, as otherwise it would’ve been a defeat for all of Italian football.
“We resolved the problem also with the help of the two ultras groups, who were very understanding and co-operative.”
De Laurentiis hailed Coach Rafa Benitez for finishing his debut season with silverware.
“I don’t need to defend Benitez. He is a great professional, an extraordinary Coach and with all the changes this team had it is very positive to win silverware and do very well in a difficult League. Coaching in Naples is not the same as working anywhere else, believe me!
“I take my hat off to Rafa, as he is part of our organisation and will remain a part of it.”