The new Napoli coach Maurizio Sarri has revealed that he came close to joining AC Milan.
The 56-year-old also spoke about the Partenopei’s ambitions and objectives ahead of the 2015-16 season.
“What did [Napoli president] De Laurentiis ask of me? To lay the foundations because this squad has a future,” said Sarri to SportWeek.
“And to qualify for the Champions League because the millions in the bank really make a difference when you’re looking ahead to the future.
“De Laurentiis said that he chose me for the Napoli job because he wanted to make an appointment based on a coach’s work rather than their name.”
Sarri also spoke about the players at his disposal and stated his desire to get more out of Lorenzo Insigne.
“Insigne intrigues me,” said Sarri.
“He is an extremely talented player but he still hasn’t displayed his very best form.
“According to [Arrigo] Sacchi he is the strongest Italian player technically.
“The player asked me to try him as a trequartista and I’m doing it.”
The new Azzurri coach was also asked if there is truth in reports that he came close to joining Milan.
“Yes, I had many meetings with [Milan vice-president Adriano] Galliani,” responded Sarri.
Finally, the Napoli coach also admitted he believes Juventus are still stronger than his side despite the high-profile departures from the Bianconeri.
“Yes they’re stronger, it’s a state of mind,” said Sarri.
“They never make mistakes against the small teams for example.
“At Empoli, the players on loan from Napoli didn’t have the same mentality as the ones from Juventus.”
