Napoli’s head coach Luciano Spalletti attributed the heavy defeat to Milan in the Serie A clash to fatigue carried over from the national team duties. The home match ended 0-4 as the Rossoneri overwhelmed the Neapolitans, who could not find their usual rhythm.
Spalletti acknowledged the toll that international duty exacts on players who give their all for their countries and then return to club duties worn out. He noted that several of Napoli’s squad had pushed hard for their national teams, returning with diminished energy. Milan, he suggested, faced a similar strain but managed to perform at a higher level on the day, while Napoli did not reach their typical standard.
What appeared to many as a seemingly vulnerable opponent in the Champions League quarter-finals was not the case, according to Spalletti. The coach insisted that Milan deserved credit for their performance, while also stressing that the Champions League is a different stage where players need no extra motivation. The match underscored that even top teams can have off days, and the European contest demands an edge that teams must cultivate week to week.
That defeat marked Napoli’s second loss of the Serie A campaign. Despite the setback, Napoli remained at the forefront of Serie A standings, boasting 71 points from 28 games. Milan sat close behind with 51 points, moving up to third place in the table after their triumph.
Looking ahead, Napoli and Milan are scheduled to meet again in the Champions League quarter-finals. The first leg is set for April 12 in Milan, followed by the return leg on April 18 in Naples, promising a tightly contested tie between the teams for a place in the semi-finals.
Meanwhile, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is reported to have signed a new contract with Napoli. According to Foot Mercato, the agreement runs through the summer of 2028 and places his annual salary at 2.5 million euros, reflecting the club’s confidence in his continued impact and development.