Alessandro Del Piero believes Maurizio Sarri “sent a bad message” regarding Gonzalo Higuain ahead of Napoli-Villarreal.
The second leg in the Europa League Round 32 kicks off tonight at 20.05 GMT, follow the build-up and action on our LIVEBLOG.
Coach Sarri said it was up to Higuain whether or not the striker felt ready to start this game.
Alessandro Del Piero believes Maurizio Sarri “sent a bad message” regarding Gonzalo Higuain ahead of Napoli-Villarreal.
The second leg in the Europa League Round 32 kicks off tonight at 20.05 GMT, follow the build-up and action on our LIVEBLOG.
Coach Sarri said it was up to Higuain whether or not the striker felt ready to start this game.
“It was strange and frankly the Coach surprised me with that comment,” Del Piero told Sky Sport Italia in his new role as a pundit.
“I don’t consider it the right thing to do. Big players are fundamental, but you cannot send out such a bad message to the others.
“What can the team feel about that, even respecting the fact this player is beyond dispute?
“It seems a bit much to let the player decide how and when he wants to play, especially if this was announced by the Coach.”