In a surprising turn of events, Walter Mazzarri has been appointed as the new manager of Napoli until the end of the 2023-24 season. The Italian team made the decision to part ways with coach Rudi Garcia due to a poor start to the season, and Mazzarri, who previously managed Napoli from 2009 to 2013, will take over. His contract will run until the summer of 2024, after which Napoli will likely appoint a new coach for the future.
Following a home defeat to Empoli on Sunday, Napoli’s owner Aurelio De Laurentiis decided to dismiss Garcia. Napoli has suffered three Serie A defeats at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona this season and currently occupies the fourth position with 21 points, trailing first-place Inter by 10 points.
De Laurentiis explored various options and engaged in discussions with multiple candidates, including former Olympique Marseille boss Igor Tudor. However, Tudor sought a minimum two-year contract, whereas Napoli was only willing to offer a short-term deal until the end of the season. Conversely, Mazzarri promptly accepted the opportunity to return to the club where he previously achieved significant success. During his previous tenure at Napoli, Mazzarri secured the Coppa Italia in 2012, guided the team to the UEFA Champions League group stages twice, and achieved third and second-place finishes in Serie A during his final season at the club. Since then, Mazzarri has managed Inter, Watford, Torino, and Cagliari.
During his time at Napoli, Mazzarri coached notable players such as Ezequiel Lavezzi, Edinson Cavani, and Marek Hamsik, forming one of the most exciting trios in the club’s recent history. His strong relationship with De Laurentiis has led to his return to the club following the challenging start to this season. While a new face and coach are likely to take charge at Napoli next season, Mazzarri is set to shape the immediate future of the club.
