Gaetano Manfredi, the mayor of Naples, has asked for Napoli fans not to deface monuments in celebration of their success, although he admitted ‘the Scudetto is the great catharsis.’
The Partenopei are close to securing their first league title in over three decades, sitting 19 points ahead of second place Lazio after 27 games. Luciano Spalletti’s side have been one of the most electric teams in Europe this season and are tipped as possible winners of the Champions League.
Passions are high in the Campania capital and many are looking forward to the incredible Scudetto celebrations likely to erupt in the city once Napoli’s league title is confirmed.
Speaking to Il Fatto Quotidiano, mayor of Naples Manfredi first discussed the Scudetto fever and defacing of monuments in celebration.
“When I saw the statue in Piazza Mercato coloured blue, I imagined the worst. The Scudetto is the great catharsis.
“A city accustomed to chasing and defending itself is now excelling, towering, and above all giving lessons in play, style, and even managerial talent.
“I’m afraid that joy will turn into bullfighting and bullfighting into an outrage against our monuments. That is why I have called for a suspension of the colouring activities.”
He touched on the kind of celebrations he wants to see in the Campania capital.
“Neapolitans are attentive and know that monuments are wealth for all. Joy can be expressed in many ways. I propose creative, artistic installations, banners everywhere. We must engage in a battle for creativity.”
The mayor of Naples refuted accusations that he was a Juventus supporter and touched on the cultural impact of Napoli’s success.
“Every Sunday, you can find me at the stadium and, without wishing to be a show-off, the team flies. We are superstitious, so you do the math. I notice that football victories are aligned with successes in cultural tourism.
“Naples is full of tourists every month of the year, and they find wealth, redemption, even economic strength. I do not want to witness those exaggerated joys that then overflow into vulgarity and above all are queens of the ephemeral.”
Finally, Manfredi noted how winning the Scudetto would bring a new image to the city.
“It repairs a reputational deficit, it makes Naples more seductive, attractive, international. It will be a great achievement.”