Rafa Benitez understands what Walter Mazzarri is going through as Napoli face Inter, but is in no rush to renew.
It kicks off on Sunday at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT), click here for a match preview.
“Our mentality at the moment is positive and if we win a fourth game on the trot it would be very important for us,” said Benitez in his Press conference.
Rafa Benitez understands what Walter Mazzarri is going through as Napoli face Inter, but is in no rush to renew.
It kicks off on Sunday at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT), click here for a match preview.
“Our mentality at the moment is positive and if we win a fourth game on the trot it would be very important for us,” said Benitez in his Press conference.
Mazzarri is currently struggling after two consecutive Serie A defeats and there are reports he could be sacked if Napoli conquer San Siro tomorrow.
Benitez knows full well how demanding the fans and media can be at Inter, as he lasted six months before leaving by mutual consent in December 2010.
“They are playing on home turf with the fans close by. I know them well and they expect a win from their team. Even if we are away from home, we will try to get the victory. It’s beyond doubt Inter have pressure on them.
“An important club always expects a great deal and when results aren’t good I’d say that is normal. However, the team and the Coach are strong and at the end of the season they’ll be near the top. I hope behind us!
“Mazzarri constructed this squad with his ideas of football. A lot has changed since I was there. At the time there were 15 players over 30 years old, so it was difficult to keep them going.
“Are Inter or Napoli stronger? It depends on what we can do in these next three weeks. Everything could change. At the moment we are confident and if we win it will grow even more. This team can fight it out with anyone, then as time goes on the strength in depth will also be decisive.
“I take it one game at a time and don’t think of final objectives like the Scudetto. If we win tomorrow, it’ll be easier to win the next match too.”
Benitez was also reticent when asked about his contract, which expires in June 2015.
“With De Laurentiis we discussed the work of the squad. We also discussed the future, but there are 15 games to go until January… We haven’t set dates for renewal talks, but it is better to concentrate on the matches.”
Marek Hamsik has stuttered under Benitez’s reign, fuelling rumours of a possible move to Inter in future.
“I don’t just expect him to take the game to Inter, but all of my players. We know what to do, as players like Hamsik, Higuain, Palacio and Icardi can make the difference.”
Walter Gargano is out for a month after fracturing his cheekbone during a training ground collision with Dries Mertens.
“It’s a real shame, as he even gave up on international duty to stay and train with us. We have players who can win it for him.”