Napoli Manager Calzona likely to leave at the end of the season after recent admission

Napoli's new manager Francesco Calzona | Imago

Napoli Manager Calzona likely to leave at the end of the season after recent admission

Ayoola Kelechi 23:10 - 24.03.2024

The interim manager, who took over as Napoli's third coach this season, has hinted that he could leave the club this summer

Francesco Calzona, the current interim manager of Napoli, has hinted at his departure from the club at the end of the season, citing difficulties in balancing his roles with the Slovakian national team. Calzona's revelation comes amidst speculation regarding Napoli's managerial position for the upcoming season.

Calzona's tenure at Napoli marks the third managerial change of the season at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona. He took over following the dismissals of Rudi Garcia and Walter Mazzarri, stepping into a team with high expectations and a fervent fan base.

Calzona's Challenge with temporary arrangement

Calzona's appointment at Napoli was initially intended as a temporary solution until the end of the season. However, complications arose due to his concurrent role as the coach of Slovakia. Juggling responsibilities between club and country has proven to be a formidable task for Calzona.

Addressing the challenges posed by managing both Napoli and Slovakia, Calzona admitted to MediaSet, "The double role is compatible only when there are no official matches planned at the international level." His statement underscores the logistical hurdles of maintaining two demanding positions simultaneously.

Calzona not thinking about Napoli

As Slovakia progresses in the Euro 2024 tournament, Calzona finds himself increasingly preoccupied with national team duties. Despite his commitment to Napoli, his focus has been divided, raising questions about his long-term suitability for the managerial role at the Italian club.

Acknowledging the impracticality of his current arrangement, Calzona expressed uncertainty about his future with Napoli. "I am not thinking about Napoli confirming me because the agreement with Aurelio De Laurentiis was only for these few months," he remarked, hinting at an impending departure.

Napoli's managerial prospects

With Calzona's departure looming, Napoli is already exploring alternatives for the next season. Reports suggest that Vincenzo Italiano, the current Fiorentina coach, is being considered as a potential successor. Napoli's decision will likely shape the club's trajectory in the seasons to come.

As the season draws to a close, Napoli faces a period of transition, both on and off the pitch. Calzona's departure signifies the end of a chapter, while the search for a new manager heralds the beginning of a new era for the storied Italian club.

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