Walter Mazzarri sees Napoli brimming with confidence ahead of the lunchtime match with Parma. “If we’re in good shape, we can beat anyone.”
The Partenopei have won their last five consecutive games and are quickly closing in on the European places.
Walter Mazzarri sees Napoli brimming with confidence ahead of the lunchtime match with Parma. “If we’re in good shape, we can beat anyone.”
The Partenopei have won their last five consecutive games and are quickly closing in on the European places.
“Playing at 12.30 (11.30am UK time, ndr) will be an unknown element, because due to internationals I was only able to train my men at that time yesterday, whereas Parma had all week to practice. That’s not an alibi, let it be clear.
“Parma are doing well under the guidance of Roberto Donadoni. They have important players and we must be focused in defence, using the same aggression we reserve for facing the biggest clubs. As far as we are concerned, Parma are on the same level as Chelsea, as are any other opponent. That’s the mentality I want.
“I want to win always and if we are in good shape, then we can beat anyone.
“Marek Hamsik will certainly play, as he returns from suspension, but I’ve hardly seen Juan Camilo Zuniga since his international duty, so Andrea Dossena will play instead.”
In the press conference Mazzarri was also asked about his rapport with President Aurelio De Laurentiis and the media.
“There is reciprocal respect with the President and we have an excellent rapport. If I am one of the only Coaches who resists the pressure in this football, it means I didn’t get distracted right from when I was working in Serie C.
“Am I unlikeable? The people I work with daily don’t consider me unlikeable, although maybe I do get easily upset. That’s normal when a Coach is not given the right recognition for all the work he does during the week.”