Maurizio Sarri said he was happier with Napoli’s performance in defeat than when they were leading at Sassuolo.
Marek Hamsik had opened the scoring in the first few minutes, but Antonio Floro Flores and Nicola Sansone turned it around.
“It was clear as time went on that Sassuolo’s fitness levels were stronger,” Sarri told Sky Sport Italia after the 2-1 defeat.
Maurizio Sarri said he was happier with Napoli’s performance in defeat than when they were leading at Sassuolo.
Marek Hamsik had opened the scoring in the first few minutes, but Antonio Floro Flores and Nicola Sansone turned it around.
“It was clear as time went on that Sassuolo’s fitness levels were stronger,” Sarri told Sky Sport Italia after the 2-1 defeat.
“Also, in pre-season we showed these dips in intensity when controlling the match and clearly that is something we need to work on a great deal.
“We actually conceded the decisive goal when we were in control and pushing for the victory.
“Fundamentally, it is better to lose while playing well in the second half rather than win with the first half performance, as we really did not do enough.
“Gonzalo Higuain arrived very late due to the Copa America, so it’s unthinkable he could play an entire game now. I think the international calendar needs to be adjusted, because I’m going to lose players for weeks now.
“We have six important forwards, some who are not in great physical shape like Higuain and Manolo Gabbiadini, so it’s only natural to rotate them a bit.
“The two goals were the same basic situation, the ball went wide and was put back in quickly. I was very worried about Sassuolo’s ability to attack the space, as this is one of the issues we are working to improve this summer.”
Sarri was asked whether Napoli would bring in more reinforcements, but gave a rather damning response.
“I couldn’t care less. I have to focus on the players I have and making sure they don’t make the same mistakes again.
“The transfer market is for people who don’t want to talk about football, it’s something that bad Coaches seek refuge in.”