Fabio Cannavaro claims 'Cholismo' is just defensive football, whilst discussing Napoli's campaign.
Atletico Madrid's successful brand of football has been termed 'Cholismo', and it generally designates gritty teams that concede very little.
However, 42-year-old Cannavaro believes it is simply the same thing that Italians did for years.
Fabio Cannavaro claims 'Cholismo' is just defensive football, whilst discussing Napoli's campaign.
Atletico Madrid's successful brand of football has been termed 'Cholismo', and it generally designates gritty teams that concede very little.
However, 42-year-old Cannavaro believes it is simply the same thing that Italians did for years.
“If we do it, we get criticised, if others do it, they call it Cholismo,” said Cannavaro, as reported by ItaSportPress. “Football has changed, and we're losing that which we knew how to do best. It's a shame.
“In the Campania region there are good players, but it's hard to retain them and develop them.”
Cannavaro then went on to discuss Napoli's season in Serie A as they contend for second place with Roma.
“Roma were biting at Napoli's heels, but [Coach Maurizio] Sarri's team reacted wonderfully, giving us some great performances.
“The squad has to be reinforced now, though if that had been done earlier, maybe they could have won the Scudetto.
“I often hear from [Gonzalo] Higuain, we have a good relationship. I told him to keep playing that way, because Napoli brings out the best in you. You could see his qualities already at the age of 19.
“Sarri is full of ideas, he gives serenity to his footballers and erases their doubts. It's a shame he came to Serie A so late.”
Finally, the World Champion discussed the national team, and the suggestion that he may Coach it himself after Antonio Conte's departure.
“I read that in the papers and I'm flattered to be accosted to the Nazionale. I'm a Coach, and coaching the national team is everyone's dream. But we'll have to see.”