After the hard-fought but precious victory against Venezia, Napoli defender Juan Jesus spoke to Radio Crc, underlining the importance of the three points won and already looking ahead to the next match against Fiorentina. “Venezia is a well-organized team and it was clear that it wasn’t easy to find spaces,” the Brazilian began, “but we dominated the match by following the coach’s instructions. We were patient and we were rewarded. Now we’re thinking straight away about Fiorentina, it will be a very complex challenge.”
The Italian centre-back then took stock of the first half of the season, highlighting the team's progress despite the changes compared to last season. “We changed a lot, but we still managed to do well. We got important results against top-ranking teams, such as draws with Torino and Milan. Our goal is to continue this growth path because we are a strong team.”
Speaking about his colleagues in the department, Juan Jesus praised his teammate Amir Rrahmani and the young talent Good morning: “I have been playing with Amir for four years, while Buongiorno is a player with great prospects who is giving us a big hand.” The defender then responded to the criticisms he received in the past: “I have been in Italy for 14 seasons and I have nothing to prove. I work hard and I am only interested in the judgement of the coach and the club. I speak with facts on the pitch, not with controversies.”
There was also a reference to the team group, described as a united and willing collective: “We are good guys, maybe even too good on the pitch. But we work hard and follow the coach’s instructions. The road is long, but we want to continue like this.” On the new coach, Antonio Conte, the Brazilian defender has words of great respect: "He's a sergeant, he uses more stick than carrot, but it's always worked and the results he's achieved in his career prove it. Jokingly, I told him that either he's extending my career by ten years or he's making me quit right away. – he added laughing – because it makes us work hard, but always on what is needed.”
Finally, Juan Jesus spoke about his connection with the city: “Napoli was fundamental in relaunching me in a difficult moment of my career. Spalletti believed in me and I showed my value. Here I won a championship and I feel at home. Every morning I wake up and see Vesuvius: it is a beautiful city and full of passion.”
Article published on 2 January 2025 - 15:56
The match against Venezia was a tough test for Napoli, but in the end they won. Juan Jesus speaks well of the team, but there are still many things to improve. I hope they continue to grow in the next matches.