“We’re working hard to build a top squad with huge ambition,” explained Cristiano Giuntoli in a press conference in Dimaro. The club’s sporting director spoke about various comings and goings as well as the team’s hopes for next season.
The first question was about Paulo Dybala:
“We thought there might be an opportunity with Dybala. We spoke to his agent, but understood it wasn’t really an opportunity for us and it’s probably the same story for him.”
The sale of Kalidou Koulibaly:
“We did everything to keep Kalidou and tried until the end. Unfortunately, it wasn’t possible. We made him a big offer, but he had told us that he wanted to leave and he later confirmed that despite our best intentions.
“We’re disappointed but Napoli will move forward and we’ll show our strength. We have some quality youngsters and we’re confident. We want to be a top club that our city can be proud of. We’re focused on events in the transfer market. We’ll carry out deals that we feel are right to improve our squad.”
Fabian Ruiz: “He’s calm and so are we. Our intention is for Fabian to stay with us no matter what. For players with expiring contracts, so much is down to their desire.“
Matteo Politano: “There have never been any doubts. He’s an important player for us. We have the same wishes and he’s never told us he plans to leave.”
Do you feel Napoli will compete for the Scudetto?
“The Scudetto is a dream that we always want to pursue. Above all, we’re trying to build a strong team. We’ll complete the squad with a goalkeeper and another defender to replace Koulibaly. We’re keeping a close eye on what’s happening in the transfer market. We’ll carry out the deals that we feel are right and will improve the squad.
“It’s a period of change and I think the fans can believe in a club that has played in the Champions League for eight years. I feel the De Laurentiis family deserves huge credit for what they’ve achieved so far.
“Our aim is to bring in exciting young players who can prove their worth in the future. We’re convinced that we’re signing players who can bring success to Napoli one day.”
