Spalletti: "Napoli, heads down and focused on the goal against Empoli"

Napoli coach Luciano Spalletti returns to Empoli, where he spent seven years as a player and coach, and acknowledges the club as a model for how football should be played. He believes his experience at Empoli has helped him in his subsequent coaching roles, and he credits the club for providing him with a strong foundation. Looking ahead to the match against Empoli, Spalletti warns against complacency and emphasizes the importance of staying focused on the goal. He also acknowledges the difficult challenge that Empoli will pose, with several talented players in their lineup.

Spalletti plans to make a few changes to the starting lineup, but will still rely on his core group of players. He acknowledges that some players, like Di Lorenzo and Osimhen, seem to thrive on playing regularly, while others may benefit from some rest. Spalletti also speaks highly of midfielder Lobotka, who has impressed him since his days at Empoli.

Finally, Spalletti expresses his condolences for the recent passing of television personality Maurizio Costanzo, while also expressing pride in receiving the Bearzot Award, which recognizes outstanding coaching in Italian football.