Gennaro Gattuso has said he expected Napoli would face a tough Europa League group and has provided an update about his contract extension.
A home draw against Real Sociedad tomorrow would be enough for the Partenopei to qualify for the last 32 stage of Europa League.
“I expected a tough group,” Gattuso said at a press conference.
“Every team is very organized, Rijeka were considered the weakest side but they have created troubles to everyone. AZ and Real Sociedad have competitive teams,” he continued.
Gennaro Gattuso has said he expected Napoli would face a tough Europa League group and has provided an update about his contract extension.
A home draw against Real Sociedad tomorrow would be enough for the Partenopei to qualify for the last 32 stage of Europa League.
“I expected a tough group,” Gattuso said at a press conference.
“Every team is very organized, Rijeka were considered the weakest side but they have created troubles to everyone. AZ and Real Sociedad have competitive teams,” he continued.
"I think I have done good things so far. My staff and I are satisfied with the work done. We have a strong team, we are convinced this is the perfect team for how we see football.”
Fabian Ruiz returns to action after an injury while Piotr Zielinski is expected to start in midfield.
“Fabian feels well and is eligible to play,” Gattuso said.
"Zielinski can do everything, he has great qualities, let’s see where he will play tomorrow. He went through a negative period after COVID, now he is doing well.
“We’ll need a big game in both phases. They have two heavy absences, but they are unbeaten in 17 games and this makes us understand what team we are going to face tomorrow.”
Gattuso will be the first Napoli coach at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium.
"There is emotion and responsibility, also for the importance of the match. Diego deserves so much, for everything he did in this city. It is a great honor for me, there will be further pressure for this.”
The former Italy midfielder repeated Lorenzo Insigne can do more although he is improving.
"Lorenzo doesn’t have to smile because he scores goals, but because he comes to Castel Volturno to train. I have a frank relationship with him, he is improving. He is the captain and must always be impeccable in everything he does.”
The Italian did also comment on the racist incident during PSG-Basaksehir on Tuesday with the teams that walked off the pitch during the game which will be resumed today. Would Gattuso have done the same?
"Difficult to answer, one should be faced with certain problems. Strong signals are needed to combat racism, and that one of yesterday was a strong signal. Those who decided did it in good faith. It’s definitely not a good story for football.”
Is he close to signing a contract extension with Napoli?
“Mind your own business,” he said laughing.
"Seriously, they are evaluating and reading all the documentation…".