Ancelotti: 'Mature Napoli, now for Zlatan...'

By Football Italia staff

Carlo Ancelotti was pleased with Napoli’s “solidity and maturity” to beat Verona 2-0, then joked he’ll call Zlatan Ibrahimovic tonight.

“The result is important to clear the air from a few clouds. We controlled the game well, especially in the second half, against a very physical Verona side who caused us problems before the break.

“At this moment, it is important to show solidity and maturity, both of which I saw this evening,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.

“On a tactical level, at times when defending 4-4-2, we don’t have the right timing of our movements and can push the full-backs forward too quickly, which leaves gaps. We were already in the lead in the second half and therefore not so hasty to pour forward.”

Milik hadn’t scored at all for Napoli this season, but after a stunner for Poland midweek, he netted a brace today for Napoli.

“I think the goal he scored on international duty was the key, the switch that changed the chemistry of his mood and confidence. He had some fitness problems, has recovered and is regaining his form.”

With a shortage of full-backs, Ancelotti moved Giovanni Di Lorenzo over to the left.

“Di Lorenzo continues to be a pleasant surprise, because can do anything. Every time we ask him to do something, he can just do it with great simplicity, which is probably why it works.

“I am fortunate to have versatile players rather than specialists in one role, as it gives us options on how we want to interpret the game. Fabian Ruiz and Piotr Zielinski can cut inside on the other foot, so can play wide or more central.”

Lorenzo Insigne was sent to the stands for the Champions League visit to KRC Genk, while there was a meeting this week between Ancelotti, Insigne and agent Mino Raiola.

“We had already cleared the air the day he went into the stands. He returned to training the way he usually does and it is very important for the whole squad that the captain of Napoli is happy.”

Zlatan Ibrahimovic told La Gazzetta dello Sport that he would love an experience at Napoli, especially as he already worked with Ancelotti.

“I’ll call him tonight and say we’re waiting! I have a great deal of affection for him, I saw he scored 29 goals in 30 MLS games. Tomorrow, after I’ve called him, I’ll let you know how it went!” joked Ancelotti.

Ibra will be a free agent when his LA Galaxy contract expires in December.

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