Simone Verdi discusses his ‘authoritative but humble’ Coach Carlo Ancelotti and what it means to be Napoli’s number nine.
The 26-year-old arrived at the Partenopei from Bologna this summer and is with his new side at their pre-season training camp at Dimaro.
Speaking to Corriere della Sera, the forward revealed how his Milan roots mean he has always admired Ancelotti – who won two Champions League titles in charge of the Rossoneri.
“I’m unlikely to forget our first telephone call,” Verdi explained.
Simone Verdi discusses his ‘authoritative but humble’ Coach Carlo Ancelotti and what it means to be Napoli’s number nine.
The 26-year-old arrived at the Partenopei from Bologna this summer and is with his new side at their pre-season training camp at Dimaro.
Speaking to Corriere della Sera, the forward revealed how his Milan roots mean he has always admired Ancelotti – who won two Champions League titles in charge of the Rossoneri.
“I’m unlikely to forget our first telephone call,” Verdi explained.
“I grew up in the Milan youth sector and Ancelotti is a sort of icon there.
“I didn’t know what to say, I was intimidated. However, he was perfect, revealing himself immediately as the person I met at Dimaro.
“He is simple, kind, authoritative but humble in his approach.”
Verdi is confident he will be able follow in the footsteps of other Napoli number nines, with the last one having been Gonzalo Higuain.
“I hold the number nine in high regard. I know what that shirt represents in the club’s history.
“I am convinced I will be able to honour it in the best possible way.”