Serie A contenders Napoli have announced the signing of right-back Pasquale Mazzocchi from regional rivals Salernitana in a €3 million deal. The 28-year-old defender arrives as a backup option for captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo, adding depth and competition to the Partenopei’s backline.
Mazzocchi enjoyed a strong season with Salernitana in 2022-23, contributing defensively and offensively with three goals and four assists across all competitions. His energetic presence and attacking mindset caught the eye of Napoli, who were keen to solidify their right flank.
While Di Lorenzo remains the undisputed first-choice right-back at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, Mazzocchi offers valuable cover and tactical flexibility. His ability to play on either side of the defense further enhances his appeal to manager Luciano Spalletti.
Speaking to the club’s official website, Mazzocchi expressed his excitement about joining Napoli:
“It’s a dream come true to be here at Napoli,” he said. “I’m incredibly motivated to work with this fantastic team and learn from Giovanni Di Lorenzo. I know my role is to push him and be ready to contribute whenever called upon.”
The arrival of Mazzocchi signifies Napoli’s commitment to competing on multiple fronts. With aspirations of challenging for the Scudetto and making a deep run in the Champions League, squad depth is crucial. Mazzocchi’s presence ensures Spalletti has the options to rotate and keep his key players fresh throughout the demanding season.
What This Means for Napoli:
- Mazzocchi provides backup and competition for Di Lorenzo, strengthening the right flank.
- His versatility enhances tactical flexibility for Spalletti.
- The signing reinforces Napoli’s commitment to squad depth and competing on multiple fronts.
What This Means for Mazzocchi:
- A chance to learn from and compete with one of the best full-backs in Serie A.
- A platform to showcase his talents on a bigger stage and potentially earn international recognition.
- A significant step forward in his career development.
Mazzocchi’s arrival represents a smart investment for Napoli and a great opportunity for the player himself. He will be eager to prove his worth and contribute to the team’s success in the years to come.