Napoli wingback Pasquale Mazzocchi reveals his great admiration for Inter Milan icon Javier Zanetti who currently serves as the club’s vice-president.
The 28-year-old is a Neapolitan native, but had to earn a move to his hometown club the hard way.
He started his career at Benevento before representing a host of clubs in the lower tiers. He eventually made a name for himself in the top flight with Salernitana which paved the way for a dream transfer to Napoli last January.
The player describes his arrival to his boyhood club as an emotional event.
“For me, arriving at Napoli was a great emotion, one that I rarely ever felt,” said Mazzocchi in his interview with the Napoli social channels via FcInter1908.
“I truly became a child once again.”
But unfortunately for the Italy international, his time at the Stadio Maradona has been challenging thus far.
On his club debut, he picked up a red card for a reckless challenge on Torino’s Valentino Lazaro. This occurred just a few minutes following his introduction.
To make matters worse for Pasquale, Napoli sacked Walter Mazzarri and replaced him with Francesco Calzona who hasn’t been keen on using him at all.
Napoli Fullback Pasquale Mazzocchi Considers Inter Milan Legend Javier Zanetti An Idol
These managerial changes depict what has been a horrific campaign for last season’s Serie A champions. On the other hand, Inter have emerged as the odds-on favorite to succeed the Southerners from the very start of the season.
The Nerazzurri are now on the verge of clinching their first Scudetto title in three years. They can do so by beating their arch-rivals AC Milan on Monday. For the latest odds on the Derby della Madonnina and more visit spelbolagutansvensklicens.co, your ultimate betting guide in Sweden and beyond.
Returning to Mazzocchi, the wingback identifies Inter legend Zanetti as his footballing idol. But nowadays, he is inspired by Barcelona star Joao Cancelo.
“One of my strengths is definitely my determination and hunger to win. If I have to name a player from the past who inspires me, it has to be Javier Zanetti.
“As for today, I’m a fan of Joao Cancelo.”
Zanetti spent 19 years at Inter before calling it a day. He won a host of major honors, including four Scudetto titles and a Champions League trophy in 2009/10.
The Argentine remained at the club following his retirement and currently acts as the Nerazzurri vice-president.
More must-reads: