GATTUSO: "I'M PROUD TO BE HERE"
Gennaro Gattuso spoke of his pride as he was unveiled as the new Napoli coach at a press conference at the club’s training ground on Wednesday.
“I’m very proud to be here at Napoli – there’s everything you need to do well here,” said the new Partenopei boss. “It was easy to say yes to Napoli – this is a top club that has competed in Italy and Europe for the last ten years. Right now we’re not having a good spell in the league but the squad is suitable for the kind of football I like to play, so I’m delighted to coach this group.”
Have you spoken with Carlo Ancelotti?
“It’s not been an easy few days, because I knew I had to clear things up with Carlo and there were a few things that made it hard for me. That said, Carlo once again showed that he is a father to me today. He’s always helped me in difficult moments and today I had the umpteenth demonstration of what a great man he is. He also gave me some advice on how to help the team, but I’ll tell you right away: don’t compare me and Ancelotti because he’s won it all, while I’m still a young coach at 41. I hope to achieve 10% of what he’s done in his career.”
What’s the objective for this season?
“I won’t beat around the bush. This is a team that cannot not be in the Champions League so the objective is to regain the ground between us and the top positions. Napoli have to try and impose a certain type of game. I know what I can contribute but the team and the club have to help me. We need to walk hand in hand and work hard.”
How can you come through this difficult period?
“With big results and performances. There’s no other route. I hope we can play some good football too because that’s what Napoli have been doing for years. As I’ve said, I couldn’t have wished for a better team to coach because the players I have at my disposal fit perfectly with my tactical approach.”
Have you got an idea of what’s gone wrong so far for Napoli?
“I think there are things that can be improved in terms of defending and possession. I think we can improve in various areas. It’s certainly a bit embarrassing to see this team in seventh, but I believe the side can get back up there.”
What did you make of the side after the first training session?
“The team knows it can do more. It wants to bounce back and wasn’t expecting to be in this situation. That was my first impression. It was a positive one that applies to the squad, the facilities and the club organisation.”
Do you have a message for the fans?
“Right now I think it should be the team that does the talking, not the coach. The mood of the fans is linked to the players’ attitude on the pitch. A lot will depend on us, on how we express ourselves and on the results we’re able to get. Personally I hope to secure some big results. There’s nothing better than working in environment in which you like everything – from the quality of the squad to the size of the club. That’s the main reason why I didn’t hesitate for a second before saying yes to Napoli…”
(Photo Getty Images)
