Ancelotti’s Napoli play catch-up as PSG loom
MILAN: Napoli will be looking to hit struggling Empoli hard in Friday’s early Serie A match to keep touch with leaders Juventus before next week’s Champions League blockbuster against Paris Saint-Germain.
Carlo Ancelotti knows well that at home against Empoli, his side have to get back on track for the title after last Sunday’s 1-1 draw against Roma, thanks to Dries Mertens’ late equaliser.
Napoli, with 22 points from 10 games, are now third, level on points with Inter Milan, who are ahead on goal difference, but six points adrift of seven-time champions Juventus.
“We will fight to the end, the goal is very clear,” said Ancelotti at Thursday’s press conference.
“There are several teams that aim to get closer to Juve, Inter had a positive run and they’re closer like us and that increases the competitiveness of the championship.
“AC Milan are getting closer now too.”
The Napoli coach was playing his cards close to his chest as he ruled out resting players including Lorenzo Insigne ahead of Tuesday’s game at home against PSG.
“If there’s rotation I will do it only to put on fresh players for this game.
“Some players will change but I won’t name names to keep you guessing.
“The next match is not in my thoughts, the one against Empoli is now the most important.”
“We’re in a good period, we’re in good shape mentally and physically .. but there are always pitfalls just around the corner.”
Empoli lost 2-1 to Juventus last weekend after a Cristiano Ronaldo double, and are in the relegation zone with just three points from their last nine games.
Massimiliano Allegri’s Juventus host Cagliari on Saturday, before next week’s visit by Manchester United, with Inter Milan at home against Genoa on Saturday, ahead of their date with Barcelona in the San Siro.