“The tie is still evenly in the balance. We’ve got no advantage over them. Eintracht Frankfurt are a top opponent. We’ll need to play as we did in the first leg.” Luciano Spalletti was resolute ahead of his side’s Champions League showdown with the German outfit.
“We’re heading into a big tie. It feels like the first final of our season because it could make history for our club. Getting to the quarter-finals would be a really prestigious milestone but I don’t think the pressure on the deal will be any different from normal.”
“In the past the team has faced a whirlwind of external expectations. We’ve always responded on the pitch and I’m convinced that tomorrow will be no different.”
Is there a danger of underestimating the opponent having won the first leg 2-0?
"We never underestimate anyone, least of all Eintracht, given they beat Barcelona last season, to give one example. We want to become a legendary team and write a wonderful chapter in our city’s history books. We know that in order to become a legendary team we need our players to show great quality.
“I’ve got a squad full of humble and professional players who are always willing to lend a hand to their team-mates. A winning team isn’t just made up of the 11 players on the pitch, it’s also about those cheering on and helping on the bench and behind the scenes.”
“We’ve got to show the same hunger as we’ve done so before because we’re up against an experienced side. Eintracht made it out of a group featuring Marseille, Tottenham Hotspur and Sporting, all top-drawer clubs. We’ve got a lot of respect for their team and Oliver Glasner’s coaching skills.”
Will Napoli need to play more with their heads or hearts tomorrow?
“We’ll need big hearts, cool heads, and a bit of luck.”
Do you think Napoli have what it takes to take on Europe’s best in your quest in the Champions League?
"We never cower to any opponent. It’s about doing things well, whether it’s in the Champions League or Serie A. We’ve got one thought on our minds right now – tomorrow’s encounter. It’ll be a really tough challenge and none of us are thinking ahead to who we might face in the next round.”
No away fans will be in attendance. What do you make of these restrictions?
"It is a measure born out of what happened in the first leg where public safety and the protection of our fans were not guaranteed. When it comes to public safety there are experts who work in this domain and we can’t call into question their decisions.
“I know that if there’s a possible danger then the appropriate bodies and institutions need to make some decisions. These decisions need to be respected. This doesn’t depend on Napoli – it was a decision taken by authorities beyond the football clubs.”
Have you picked your team yet?
“I’ve only chosen one so far for tomorrow’s game – our fans. We want them to be there to drive us on. I’ll pick the players further down the line.”
