Carlo Ancelotti is happy to take a 4-3 victory away to Fiorentina and insists Napoli can win the Scudetto by focusing on this all-attack approach.
It was a spectacular match at the Stadio Franchi, ultimately decided by Lorenzo Insigne’s two goals and two assists for Dries Mertens and Jose Callejon.
Carlo Ancelotti is happy to take a 4-3 victory away to Fiorentina and insists Napoli can win the Scudetto by focusing on this all-attack approach.
It was a spectacular match at the Stadio Franchi, ultimately decided by Lorenzo Insigne’s two goals and two assists for Dries Mertens and Jose Callejon.
“They got the ball between the lines and we had a few bookings, so we tried to avoid more cards, particularly Mario Rui, and that made us back up in defence,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.
“We didn’t defend well, that much is obvious. We were bit slow in the pressing, second to the ball, but when Fiorentina dropped their tempo a little, we did well to control the ball.
“Considering everything that happened, we conceded three goals, but we did score four away from home, which isn’t bad.
“It has never been easy here for Napoli, it’s a fiery and often hostile atmosphere, but after 90 minutes of insults, I turned to the crowd and suggested that they just go home, seeing as it was late. It’s certainly not pleasant to hear insults non-stop, especially considering my father was a huge Fiorentina fan.
“I tip my hat to the majority of wonderful Fiorentina fans, but there were a few idiots right behind my bench.”
Ancelotti broke the traditional Neapolitan superstition and stated yesterday that Napoli have what it takes to win the Serie A title.
“I took responsibility and said this is a squad capable of winning the Scudetto. As a team, this is a responsibility we should all take on, because it is strong, it has a lot of potential and showed tonight a lot of quality, even when not playing that well.
“The four forwards, because Fabian Ruiz was in a hybrid role, caused huge problems to Fiorentina. We’ve got to build on that potential.
“When there isn’t the right movement or intensity in the movement, then you do risk getting caught between the lines. We have to keep doing what we’re doing, as in training this team gives me the kind of satisfaction that few others ever have.”
The Scudetto showdown with reigning title holders Juventus is next weekend in Turin, with the Bianconeri still adapting to new Coach Maurizio Sarri.
“Juve are moving from one Coach to the next, but we’ll try to play a great game of football with enthusiasm, concentration and we know it’s the most complicated fixture of the season, even if it’s in Week 2.
“I take this opportunity to wish Maurizio a swift recovery, I know I won’t see him there, so I wanted to send that message.”
Sarri wasn’t on the bench for today’s 1-0 win over Parma either, as he is undergoing treatment for pneumonia.