Napoli full-back Pasquale Mazzocchi was interviewed by Radio Kiss Kiss, discussing the team's current situation, the centenary celebration, and contract renewal, among other topics.
This is an important season for the club's centenary celebration. We saw you very emotional on the stage in Piazza del Plebiscito. How does it feel to wear this centenary jersey? "It's hard to find the right words to describe it. As a Neapolitan, being on that stage is not just my dream, but I think it's also the dream of every Napoli fan to see a Neapolitan wear the centenary jersey. I'm also very happy to see so many legends who came to attend, and as I said, we are truly grateful for everything they have given us over the years."
We see you training intensely in Dimaro, and now in Castel di Sangro, and the integration with coach Allegri seems to be going well. Did he quickly settle into the team? "No, the coach is a very good person. He makes us train seriously. In my opinion, we are doing very well now. The weather is hot, and the training camp days can be long, but we still have to thank him because every day when we go out to train, he always tries to make everyone feel more at ease, including with the discomfort of being separated from our families."
On August 5th, 8th, and 12th, you will play friendly matches against Osasuna, Celta Vigo, and Aris Thessaloniki, respectively. What do you want to say to the fans? "I want to say the same old thing, I hope everyone comes to support us in person. They have always done that and have never let us lack support. Napoli is unique in this regard. As for ourselves, we also need to start looking ahead, because the league is approaching step by step. So in these matches, we must also give our all to prepare for the new season."
He also talked about teaching Neapolitan dialect to foreign teammates. Among them, De Bruyne has learned quite well, Scott has also learned well, and now only Hojlund is left, who might still be a bit lacking in Neapolitan dialect. "I always give them 'mini-lessons' in Neapolitan dialect. I try to make them feel at home, and I also make them understand in training what it means to wear this jersey. The centenary celebration is important, but what we wear is a jersey that represents a city with over 2500 years of history. So I try to make them truly understand this."
At Opitopla, you wouldn't trade Neapolitan civic honor for a league title. But if there's another title, could you share one with him? "Then one for each, because what they have given to the team deserves such an honor." Now all that's left is the contract renewal. "Oh no, I've already talked to the club. My idea is to stay. Of course, when the contract is about to expire, one isn't completely relaxed, but I've always tried my best to play. As I said before, this matter will depend on the club's decision."
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