Wolfsburg winger Andre Schurrle admitted he is wary of Napoli’s forward line ahead of the two sides meeting in the Europa League quarter-finals.
The 24-year-old was part of the team that knocked out Inter in the previous round and he believes Wolfsburg and Napoli are now the best teams in left in the competition.
“I think Wolfsburg-Napoli is the final in advance, as we are the strongest remaining two teams,” he said to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
Wolfsburg winger Andre Schurrle admitted he is wary of Napoli’s forward line ahead of the two sides meeting in the Europa League quarter-finals.
The 24-year-old was part of the team that knocked out Inter in the previous round and he believes Wolfsburg and Napoli are now the best teams in left in the competition.
“I think Wolfsburg-Napoli is the final in advance, as we are the strongest remaining two teams,” he said to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“It will be difficult to go to the San Paolo, so we have to win at home as over there the atmosphere is incredible. I fear [Gonzalo] Higuain, but all of Napoli’s attack is strong and we need to stay alert.”
The German side defeated Inter 5-2 on aggregate in the last 16 and Schurrle had some words of advice for the struggling Nerazzurri.
“It wasn’t easy to beat Inter, but what they’re missing is a confidence in their own methods,” he said.
“They have good individuals and have demonstrated that, but they seemed a little scared. When you play Inter you expect a team that is mentally stronger.”
The former Chelsea winger was also full of praise for Lazio veteran and former Germany team-mate Miroslav Klose, who has been in inspired form for the Biancoceleste.
“Klose is an extraordinary player and an extraordinary man,” said Schurrle.
“I started playing for the national team aged 19 – he could’ve considered me a rival, but instead he gave me lots of advice. For me he was like a second father and he was like that for all the young players, he was fundamental to the whole squad.
“It hasn’t surprised me that he’s scored lots of goals this season – he has a crazy desire to play, he’s obsessed with football.
“Even after winning the World Cup and reaching the all-time goal scorer record he continues to be completely committed.
“I admire him and his footballing intelligence a lot and I hope to meet him in the Champions League next year.”