Maurizio Sarri “learned so much at Empoli, which is why I know how difficult it will be for Napoli.”
It kicks off on Sunday at 14.00 GMT, click here for a match preview.
“I am pleased to play against Empoli, because it means I’ll get to see people I am very fond of and who I owe a great deal to,” said the Coach.
Maurizio Sarri “learned so much at Empoli, which is why I know how difficult it will be for Napoli.”
It kicks off on Sunday at 14.00 GMT, click here for a match preview.
“I am pleased to play against Empoli, because it means I’ll get to see people I am very fond of and who I owe a great deal to,” said the Coach.
“I learned so much at Empoli, but I am also worried because this will be a very difficult match. They are causing everyone problems and recent results prove their strength. We must remain concentrated.”
When these sides faced off in September, it ended 2-2, leading to more than a few doubts over the choice to hire Sarri.
Fast forward four months and Napoli are top of the table.
“The last time we met Riccardo Saponara played a devastating game and I encouraged him by speaking of his quality in the Press conference. This time I’m staying quiet!
“I laid good foundations at Empoli and Marco Giampaolo is continuing that work in a similar vein. Empoli always play good football regardless of the situation, they fear nobody, and have three or four top level players.
“My lads are fully aware of how difficult this test will be and have great respect for the Empoli squad.”
Gonzalo Higuain limped off during a midweek friendly, but the Coach assured he is fit and available. This week Pipita said he’ll be eternally grateful to Sarri for getting the best out of him.
“I will also be grateful to him. Gonzalo will be decisive tomorrow.”
The Partenopei are top of the Serie A table, but Sarri continues to shrug off Scudetto talk and their transfer strategy this month suggests the club agrees with him.
“The objectives that count are set by the club, but this is our year of construction. As for the transfer strategy, I choose nobody, I just train who is put at my disposal.
“Juventus have a very strong squad, we don’t have much experience at these levels and cannot give the same guarantees as them.
“We must focus on one game at a time. I am not thinking about the Scudetto, but we won’t set limits on ourselves either.
“In recent years Juve monopolised Italian football, so it’s no surprise they climbed back into the top places.”