Giovanni Simeone looked ahead to the second half of Napoli’s season, their Scudetto hopes and what could pose a threat to their title challenge.
The Partenopei started the 2022-23 season in explosive fashion under Luciano Spalletti, flying to the top of the Serie A table with 13 wins and two draws in the first 15 games. Things have been equally impressive in the Champions League, where Napoli topped Group A and booked their spot in the Round of 16.
Speaking to Sportmediaset, Simeone first discussed who has more to lose between Napoli and Inter in their upcoming clash.
“I don’t know, they play at home, with great players, they played well in friendlies, both teams have a lot to play for and it will be important for both.
“It will be three important points for the league, it doesn’t matter now who has more because it’s very long.”
He touched on Milan’s chances of staging a comeback.
“We are always ready to show who Napoli are, always staying on the ball, we don’t care who has more points now, we are two strong teams and we’re just thinking about continuing like this.”
The Argentinian forward spoke about Napoli’s success since the summer and if any one moment helped change things.
“There is no match in itself, maybe the one with Milan gave us signs of having a great team because even playing not so well we scored points and made the difference.
“Like against Cremonese, but also in Liverpool, all matches that make us realize the good things we are doing. But a month’s break, now a new season begins.”
Simeone commented on Argentina’s World Cup win in Qatar.
“Yes, like all Argentines, it was a thrill to see the boys fight and disprove those who didn’t believe in them.
“It excites me to see a united team, a united people for a title, it goes beyond football. The Argentine people suffer so much, they needed this.”
The 27-year-old touched on how Napoli won a Scudetto after Argentina won the World Cup in 1986.
“We don’t talk about these things! They are good things to hear, they lead you to believe more, but facts count and we will do everything for Napoli.
“So many who have been here will be there to cheer us on, we feel the heat from all sides, we thank all the fans even for the friendlies.”
Finally, Simeone discussed if he felt pressure when being brought onto the pitch in the final 15-20 minutes of matches.
“Those who play less have to be even more ready because the one who plays always has the opportunity while the one who doesn’t play has to know that that is his moment and he has to make a difference.
“I know this very well and I will prove in every minute that I am up to it and can help the squad. Clearly it’s not easy, you would like to be a protagonist all the time, but it’s important not to give up and you need a cool head.”
So did Napoli also win the Scudetto after Kempes and crew won in 1978?
Nope, Milan won. Not sure how much that 86-87 stat holds up.
Would be interesting to see how it plays out but all in Napoli’s court-theirs to win or lose.