Elmas: 'Ancelotti dream come true'

By Football Italia staff

Eljif Elmas admits “it’s a dream to be coached by Carlo Ancelotti” and the tactician was crucial when he chose Napoli.

The North Macedonia international completed the transfer this week for €16m from Fenerbahce and has chosen the Number 12 shirt.

“I am very happy to be here and it already feels like a family,” said the midfielder who turns 20 next month.

“It’s a dream to be coached by Ancelotti and just to be by his side. I can learn everything that he teaches me. A phone call from Ancelotti made a huge difference when it came to making my decision.

“Obviously, Napoli playing in the Champions League also helped and is one of the many reasons why I came here.

“I played in many roles during my career and I will give 100 per cent wherever the Coach asks me to play. I like to attack, but if needed, I can also help out in defence.

“I chose the Number 12 shirt to stand out and be a bit special. I have a dream, but I’m afraid to say it out loud, as then it might not happen!”

Elmas was asked how he will settle in to the notoriously passionate football city of Naples.

“I’ve already felt the passion Napoli fans have for their team and want to repay them. When it comes to seeing places and knowing where to eat, I’ll follow the advice of Dries Mertens and Arek Milik.”

The Scudetto has long eluded the Partenopei and their rivalry with Juventus just keeps getting stronger.

“They’ve already explained to me the depth of that rivalry and I can’t wait to play. Cristiano Ronaldo’s name obviously holds a lot of weight, but he doesn’t scare me.”

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