Luciano Spalletti admits ‘it will be difficult to break away’ from Napoli, but he trusts the future of football in the city is safe because ‘I see children who recognise in these colours and this faith what represents them for life.’
The final game of the season against Sampdoria kicks off at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona at 17.30 UK time (16.30 GMT).
Before kick-off, he was presented with the award as Serie A Coach of the Season by Lega Serie A chief Luigi De Siervo.
“I want to share this with my players, my collaborators and all of you, thank you for the support,” said Spalletti while waving the trophy to the crowd.
He also spoke to the media and was asked about players confirming Spalletti had shown them a special video compilation as part of his farewell.
“The video represents the season and the sentiment that united us, the involvement of the whole city, all our fans, of all those who had in their hearts the desire to lift this trophy,” Spalletti told DAZN.
The coach said he is leaving because he has given everything and that walking away is an “act of love” towards the club and fans. What will he find toughest to do for the final time today?
“It will be difficult to break away from every tiny thing, as everyone is involved in this celebration. Napoli and Naples taught everyone how to celebrate, their investment in football for the future is huge, because I see children all over the place who love Napoli and recognise in these colours and this faith what represents them for life and we are so happy about that.”