Hamsik: 'I turned down Juve'

By Football Italia staff

Napoli captain Marek Hamsik reveals that he had offers from Juventus, Inter and Milan, but opted to remain with the Partenopei.

The Slovakian international also revealed his hopes for a Scudetto win this term, but remained realistic about his side's chances of a Champions League trophy.

Was he contacted by the aforementioned Serie A clubs?

"Yes, I can confirm this," the 29-year-old told Corriere dello Sport. "I think it is clear that in Italy there will only ever be Napoli for me, and I also believe that there is a chance that I will finish my career here. It’s a serious possibility."

Would Hamsik choose to win Serie A or a European trophy?

"I'm unable to choose, because there is a strong value in both titles. But the Champions League means that you are the strongest team in the world in practice.

"It would give Napoli an international stature that makes your head spin. It’s nice to think about it, but I don’t think it’s possible.

"I do not think that Napoli can be considered strong at that level, in the Champions League final we would take on the giants.

"But I think this Napoli a great team, capable of a wonderful style of play, for which I’m grateful to [Maurizio] Sarri. We are thus able to compete with Juventus, but we just need a few wins in a row.

"Three or four consecutive victories would draw us closer and make our presence felt.

"We have the means to do that, in this last period we were not helped by fate and when you do not win the pessimism increases.

"But I'm optimistic, or perhaps realistic, because I know the value of our opponents."

Watch Serie A live in the UK on Premier Sports for just £9.99 per month including live LaLiga, Eredivisie, Scottish Cup Football and more. Visit: https://www.premiersports.com/subscribenow