Genoa president Enrico Preziosi has written off Napoli as potential Scudetto contenders for the 2014-15 season, and has backed Juventus and Roma to battle it out for the big prize.
The 66-year-old businessman has also admitted that the Rossoblu were hard done by Jonathan de Guzman’s late goal, whilst conceding that there will be no more transfer activity in Liguria on transfer deadline day.
“De Guzman’s goal has left a bitter taste in the mouth,” he told Radio Kiss Kiss. “Although I must say that the Azzurri deserved the goal in the end.
“Napoli have a fantastic attack. They can be ruthless because they have so much quality, and they delivered.
“In my opinion, a draw would have seemed like a fair result for both teams.”
The Grifone patron then spilled a few beans regarding new signing Maxime Lestienne.
“Genoa is always observing players who have talent. They were several major teams interested in him, but I was lucky to get him before the others.”
Preziosi was asked whether the victory was secured due to the Partenopei’s enhanced fitness levels in comparison with the Rossoblu’s, to which he replied, “Yes, because they played the Champions League qualifying matches [which improved their match fitness].
“Napoli for Scudetto? I do not think s0. I do not like how they defend. Their defence is their weak point. They can score when they want with their attack, but their defence gave us too many chances and I was not convinced.
“I see Roma before all, because they did an incredible job in the transfer market, strengthening in all areas of the field, so I believe in the possibility of a Roma-Juve Scudetto duel.
“The Giallorossi have absolute quality in all departments and will not give space to any team.”
When asked about potential market activity, Preziosi said, “I do not think anything will happen. Our market is over.”
Gian Piero Gasperini’s men will take on Fiorentina at the Stadio Artemio Franchi on 14 September when Serie A resumes after the two-week international break.
