A few months ago, the relationship between Giovanni Di Lorenzo and Napoli seemed to have reached its end. The captain was almost an ex-player, having sat down multiple times with Giovanni Manna and Aurelio De Laurentiis, making his position clear: “I want to leave.” Calciomercato detail how this was during the height of the transfer market, with Di Lorenzo unhappy about criticism from fans and seriously considering a change of scenery. Even his agent, Mario Giuffredi, was displeased with the fans’ attitude towards a player who had been ever-present in a difficult season for everyone (with three coaching changes: Garcia, Mazzarri, and Calzona).
Giuffredi had vented his frustration on Radio Crc, saying, “People have short memories. Giovanni has been one of the best full-backs in the world. His season might not have been an 8 out of 10, but it certainly wasn’t a 5 either.”
Inter’s Interest in Di Lorenzo
As a result, Di Lorenzo’s entourage began to explore options, with Juventus and Inter emerging as the most interested parties. Juventus had Cristiano Giuntoli as their main advocate, having worked with Di Lorenzo at Napoli and maintaining contact with the player’s agent. Inter, however, was the first to make a call, seeking information particularly in view of a possible Dumfries departure, which ultimately didn’t materialize. Napoli hadn’t ruled out selling their captain, with a starting price of 25-30 million euros.
Conte’s Intervention
The situation was resolved, and the “case” closed, thanks to Antonio Conte. The newly appointed Napoli coach sat down with Di Lorenzo, convincing him to stay. Their first contact was over the phone, with Di Lorenzo reiterating his desire to leave. After the European Championship, the two met face-to-face, a decisive encounter for his continued stay in Naples. Upon arrival, Conte had immediately identified four untouchable players: Anguissa, Lobotka, Kvaratskhelia, and Di Lorenzo.
Now, at San Siro, Conte and his team are playing to confirm their top position with these four key players. The summer saga that almost saw Di Lorenzo leave for Inter has been transformed into a story of renewed commitment and ambition under Conte’s leadership at Napoli.
