Roma coach Luciano Spalletti has congratulated rivals Napoli on directly qualifying for the Champions League group stage, after his side’s impressive 3-1 win over AC Milan was not enough to salvage second place in Serie A.
The Giallorossi were hoping the Neapolitans could potentially drop points during their fixture against Frosinone, although the Partneopei ran out comfortable 4-0 winners, subsequently securing the runners up spot in the Italian league standings.
“We did our best,” said Spalletti after the match to Premium Sport. “We congratulate Napoli, because they deserved it and played great football.
“This team has showed it has potential, but of course we can still produce something better than we have done this season.
“Today we were in good form from the very first minute, we took the game to Milan. It was a good match. Yet, we can still do more, we have to translate our chances into goals more than we are right now.”
Spalletti also praised the recent form of midfielder, Daniele De Rossi, who he believes is back to his authoritative best.
“He’s back to his best, he has battled well, and been tough in the tackle,” he added. “He ran the game today.”
Finally Spalletti brushed off rumours his side would move for former Serie A star, Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
“He can play for anyone as he is a great striker,” he concluded. “He can do everything but it would cost too much to bring him here.”
