New coach for Victor Osimhen at Napoli

By Asuquo

Posted on February 19, 2024

For a second time this season, Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen will welcome a new coach at the club. The Athletic.NG reports.

Napoli have made a managerial change, replacing the sacked Walter Mazzarri with Slovakia coach Francesco Calzona just ahead of their crucial Champions League clash against Barcelona.

Mazzarri, 62, was dismissed after Napoli’s dip in form, leaving them ninth in Serie A prior to their encounter with Barcelona at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.

Club owner Aurelio De Laurentiis expressed gratitude to Mazzarri for his efforts during a challenging period, emphasizing the need to offer Napoli fans something exceptional.

Calzona, who previously served as an assistant under Maurizio Sarri and Luciano Spalletti at Napoli, returns to the club after guiding Slovakia to Euro 2024. He faces the daunting task of reviving Napoli’s fortunes while juggling his duties with the national team.

Despite Mazzarri’s previous success with Napoli, including winning the 2012 Italian Cup, his second stint was marred by poor results, leaving Napoli trailing behind in Serie A.

Since Spalletti’s departure, Napoli has struggled to maintain stability, evident in their significant points deficit behind league leaders Inter Milan.

The appointment of Calzona signifies a fresh start for Napoli as they seek to salvage their season and potentially secure a spot in next season’s Champions League.

Meanwhile, reigning CAF Men’s Player of the year, Victor Osimhen will be available for Calzona’s first game as Napoli coach.

Victor Osimhen watched Napoli’s last game from the stands.

The Nigerian forward recently returned from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations tournament where he helped the Super eagles clinch second place in Cote d’Ivoire.