The Azzurri coach introduces the Supercopa final against Inzaghi’s Inter with the goal of lifting another trophy in his mind, after last season’s Serie A title.
“The impressive Napoli seen against Fiorentina may not be enough to beat Inter, but Walter Mazzarri aims to gift the Azzurri the Italian Supercup. Despite significant absences, the reigning Italian champions have found some tranquility and confidence, essential to try and challenge the formidable Inter side and bring joy to President Aurelio de Laurentiis.
MAZZARRI’S FULL PRESS-CONFERENCE
Football is gaining more fans in Arabia; what would a victory tomorrow mean for the Napoli brand?
“I believe that Napoli, thanks to last year’s championship, is already known worldwide. Even when I was here, we reached the Champions League 12-13 years ago. Since then, under President De Laurentiis’ guidance, we have consistently been in cup competitions. It’s a tangible reality for years, Napoli is a team known worldwide.“
Is the final more important for you or for the team?
“For me, in what sense? In 23 years of my career, I’ve had the chance to compete for this trophy twice. I hope to be able to lift it. Otherwise, I am still happy. Not all coaches who start from scratch like me get to compete twice.”
What has impressed you the most about Inter?
“I noticed that they have a strong team with a great coach, and we saw what Inter can do in all aspects. But in such a season, even top teams can have downturns. We will face Inter at the best possible moment for them. If we perform well, as we hope, it would give us even more confidence for the rest of the season.”
Would you settle for a draw?
“No I won’t settle for a draw. Let’s not forget that I am coaching players who are Italian champions, we are the Italian champions. Against Inter in the league, we had more possession, but we lost 3-0 on the counter: we dominated in possession and goal opportunities, but they scored three times. Football is a peculiar subject, to be interpreted in a certain way. Tomorrow, we will compete evenly with Inter.”
An update on the injured players?
“There are few training sessions between matches; today will be the penultimate. We need to assess Demme‘s recoverability to see if he can be on the bench; Olivera is certainly out. Cajuste is likely to recover; Zielinski is physically well. He has recovered and played a portion of the game; I don’t know how many minutes he can have, but we will verify it today.”
Ngonge?
“I spoke with him; he is available, and I think he is in good physical condition. He could be used; I will see whether it’s appropriate for him to be there because he has just joined a group. I will see; but to be honest it will be difficult to see him there.”
