Raffaele Palladino insists Napoli are a ‘strong side’ despite their poor results this season but admits he was never in talks to join the Partenopei as a footballer.
Palladino’s Monza host Napoli at the U-Power Stadium on Sunday.
“We are aware we face a strong side, who had problems but remain the defending Serie A champions. I am particularly interested in the performance; I’ve seen an angry and upset team this season.”
Monza suffered a 1-0 loss against direct rivals Torino in the previous round.
“Francesco Calzona is an expert coach, different from Mazzari. He knows how to make the team play well,” continued Palladino. “However, we’ll try to cause trouble for Napoli in any way.”
Palladino was born in Mugnano di Napoli but was never close to joining the Partenopei as a footballer.
“I was never in talks with Napoli,” the 39-year-old admitted.
“I never had the chance to play in my city, it would have been great, but it didn’t happen.”
Palladino is seen as one of the most exciting Italian coaches and has been linked with the Napoli job, but Fiorentina boss Vincenzo Italiano is the favourite to take over at the Stadio Maradona at the end of the season.