UCL: Napoli coach Mazzarri inspired by group of good players he inherited

Napoli coach Walter Mazzarri is ready for his return to the Champions League tonight against Real Madrid.

Having returned for a second spell in charge, Mazzarri was eager to deflect the spotlight onto his players.

He said, “Last year Napoli embraced the concept of the game, we have to start from there when possible. I have to help these guys find that common thread again, like in the first half in Bergamo. From now on we will always try to play football.

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“I studied, I trained abroad, I assure you off the top of my head that I am younger than ever even if someone tells me that I have aged. I’m fully motivated to do my best both for these fans and for this club.

“I focus on the players, not on me. I can’t wait to get on the field tomorrow and pass something on to these guys.

“When we take to the field tomorrow we will see if what I explained to the boys will actually be seen. I want a short, organised and focused team, as was partly seen in the first half in Bergamo. Then it is clear that tomorrow we will face one of the best squads in the world like Real Madrid.”

He added, “I found an incredible group of good guys. Since I left, Napoli has always hired real and serious professionals. If a coach finds this human, as well as technical, material, he is already halfway there. I haven’t always found such a cohesive locker room in my career, I assure you.”