Walter Mazzarri thanked Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis for his pep talk ahead of a difficult test with Atalanta” data-scaytid=”4″>Atalanta.
Walter Mazzarri thanked Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis for his pep talk ahead of a difficult test with Atalanta.
The Partenopei have managed only four points from their last five games and are without a victory since February 2, so Milan are now breathing down their necks in the battle for second place.
They already lost to Atalanta here last season and in Bergamo back in October, so there could be another upset. Click here for a match preview.
“It is a tricky moment, like ones we have already been through in the past,” said Mazzarri in his Press conference.
“We did all the right things to overcome these difficulties. It was very important that President De Laurentiis visited us this week in a wonderful and relaxed meeting. He also came to see us last year during a difficult time and gave the lads the confidence to turn things around.
“The union between the team and the club is what gave us strength over the years and will continue to do so in future.
“In my career I have fought for safety and for the top of the table. The situation we are in now is much more positive than many others I’ve experienced, both at Napoli and elsewhere.
“At the moment we are second and respect all the sides behind us, but we must focus only on ourselves to get back on track. In December we had a similar negative streak, but with the win over Siena we were kick-started again. I’d like this to be the game that turns the tide so we can have a great end to the season.”
Part of Napoli’s problem has been Edinson Cavani failing to score for eight official games, as he hasn’t found the net since January 27.
“I always talk about performances and in those terms Cavani has always been very satisfying,” insisted Mazzarri.
“We are close to Cavani and know he will help the team to win, just as the team will help him. Edi is part of a chain reaction from the whole squad that eventually allows him to score. We want to break that drought and at times all you need is a little luck to change everyone’s attitude.
“Maybe some have lost a little sharpness due to fatigue, but I am certain we will get back to playing the type of football we always have done.”
Atalanta have a tendency to upset Napoli and hope to cause further problems tomorrow afternoon.
“The most important thing is the result. We know that Atalanta are relaxed, organised and practically safe from relegation, so they will be able to play without pressure or tension.
“In turn, we must attack without being frenetic or hasty. We have to play as a team, that is what interests me. I expect the team to start out very strong, but even if we have dips during the game, then we need the fans to keep on supporting us.”