Kalidou Koulibaly’s agent insists his client “never asked to leave” Napoli this summer.
The centre-back was repeatedly linked with a move away from San Paolo, but has recently forced his way into Coach Maurizio Sarri’s first XI.
“Koulibaly went through a strange period,” Bruno Satin admitted in an interview with Radio Crc.
Kalidou Koulibaly’s agent insists his client “never asked to leave” Napoli this summer.
The centre-back was repeatedly linked with a move away from San Paolo, but has recently forced his way into Coach Maurizio Sarri’s first XI.
“Koulibaly went through a strange period,” Bruno Satin admitted in an interview with Radio Crc.
“It wasn’t clear whether Napoli wanted to keep him or not, but in the end the player wanted to stay. Sarri has found the right formula, although the formula was already there last year, the player paid 40 matches, and did quite well for a lad who had just come from Belgium.
“It’s not true that the player was convinced about leaving Napoli, he never asked to leave and has always felt good in the city and with the club.
“There were offers, but they didn’t meet Kalidou’s expectations.
“I spoke several times with [sporting director Cristiano] Giuntoli, and he told me that the Coach was working hard with my client and wanted him to demonstrate his worth.
“Unfortunately, Kalidou can’t stand being on the bench or in the stands, and if Sarri wants to win games he must be convinced that my client will give something extra on the pitch.
“The player can often get yellow cards for nothing, and he must improve this aspect of his character, often he reacts too emotionally.
“Aggression is one of his qualities, and maybe it’s important for a defender, but he definitely has to improve and he has the potential to do so.
“He’s on the right track.”