Mazzarri: 'My Napoli era is over'

By Football Italia staff

“I want to thank the fans, but I have ended my era here at Napoli,” announced Walter Mazzarri, but he has no future plans as yet.

The decision had been in the air for some time, but the Coach only confirmed it after tonight’s 2-1 defeat to Roma.

“I had already made the decision some time ago. I thank the President and director Riccardo Bigon for trying to change my mind to the last minute.

“I had considered this last summer, which is why I turned down a contract extension, and that was a risk considering I didn’t know how this season was going to go.

“At this point I think it is only right to either change scenery or have some time off. If offers come in, then I will evaluate them. If I have the right adrenaline and motivation, then I’ll do it, otherwise I’ll stay at home.

“The lads have known me a long time and as Fabio Capello said in Italy it’s tough to last longer than four or five years at a single club. I am convinced that if I had stayed longer, certain members of the team would not have felt the same fire.

“I am truly happy with what I have achieved with the resources given to me. Naples is a wonderful place and the fans are the true soul of this club, but I wanted a new challenge.”

Mazzarri has been linked with Inter, Roma and Russian club Anzhi, among others.

“Out of respect for my club, I have not wanted to speak to any other side. Obviously my agent has been keeping an ear out, as I told him a year ago that I might consider a move.

“My only objective was to take Napoli as high as possible. From tomorrow I will evaluate my future and consider – if there are any – the offers that come in.”

Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis also saluted Mazzarri and revealed “the new Coach will be named via Twitter.”

Among the candidates are Roberto Di Matteo, Rafa Benitez, Marcelo Bielsa and Giuseppe Sannino.

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