Manolo Gabbiadini’s agent reveals “Southampton wanted him at all costs” and staying at Napoli “could’ve ruined his career.”
The move finally went through on deadline day after weeks of negotiations, as Maurizio Sarri had confessed the player simply didn’t fit into his system.
“It was very satisfying to see the move go through, as other similar operations were only on loan with obligation to buy,” agent Silvio Pagliari told Radio Marte.
Manolo Gabbiadini’s agent reveals “Southampton wanted him at all costs” and staying at Napoli “could’ve ruined his career.”
The move finally went through on deadline day after weeks of negotiations, as Maurizio Sarri had confessed the player simply didn’t fit into his system.
“It was very satisfying to see the move go through, as other similar operations were only on loan with obligation to buy,” agent Silvio Pagliari told Radio Marte.
“We would never have left on loan, we had that agreement with Napoli. There were many options, but those who wanted Manolo had to present the right project.”
There were reports that President Aurelio De Laurentiis was holding the move up until the last day.
“It’s true, he was the last to give up. I didn’t believe it until I saw the signatures on the contract, but he kept his word. Even before the Palermo game at the weekend, he told Manolo: ‘Don’t worry, I’ll sacrifice myself for what is best for you.’
“I always believed in this move. Southampton wanted him at all costs, so it was only right he went there.
“The first six months at Napoli were fantastic, but in the next 18 months he wasn’t helped by the tactical system. When he did play, his goal-scoring average was exceptional, but still not like the first six months.
“I consider Sarri a great Coach, but with Manolo a series of situations came together and the spark was just never lit between them. The Coach couldn’t see him in other roles and Manolo suffered being used so sparingly. I realised 18 months ago this would happen and everyone mocked me.
“If he’d stayed with Sarri, his career could’ve been ruined with less and less playing time. At the age of 25, you need to play regularly.
“At Southampton he’ll play in a 4-2-3-1 system, the same role he had under Rafa Benitez at Napoli. There were some teams in Italy who wanted him, but we immediately declined. De Laurentiis told me he would only sell Gabbiadini abroad.”