Barcelona are gearing up for arguably their most important match of the season as they take on Napoli this midweek, in the first leg of the UCL Round of 16 tie.
Barça have made their return to UCL knockout stages after quite some time. So making a strong impression in the first leg could be important for Xavi’s men.
Napoli won’t be an easy opponent, though, with the Partenopei notably winning the Serie A title last term. However, a lot has changed since.
Luciano Spalletti walked away after helping Napoli win the first title in 30 years. Rudi Garcia was hired as a replacement, but he was fired after four months, following a bad start to the season.
Napoli hired Walter Mazzarri as the replacement for Garcia. But even the Italian has failed to make any impactful change in Naples, with the club languishing in mid-table spots.
Napoli considering sacking Mazzarri ahead of Barcelona tie
In fact, some shocking reports are coming out of Italy, in regards to the future of Walter Mazzarri, which may have serious implications for Barcelona.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Napoli are considering sacking Mazzarri ahead of the Champions League affair against Barcelona.
Although this does sound like an impulsive decision on Napoli’s part, it must be noted that the club had been quite patient with Mazzarri. But the Italian has managed to win only six matches in 17 games this season.
Not to mention, Napoli have won just one of their last five competitive matches, which does not bode well, as far as their chances against Barcelona are concerned.
Therefore, in an attempt to zest up the squad, Napoli are ready to make a drastic managerial change.
Francesco Calzona lined up as a replacement
Romano adds that Napoli already have a replacement lined up in the form of Francesco Calzona.
The 55-year-old had served as an assistant and a technical coach at Napoli in the past. He is currently serving as the head coach of the Slovenian national team.
Romano suggests that Calzona has already accepted the job offer at Napoli and is ready to move once the club sack Mazzarri. The deal would also see Napoli legend Marek Hamsik return as part of the coaching staff.
A final decision regarding this managerial change will be made later today.
