A heartbreaking farewell, written with tears in his eyes and the weight of a bond that transcends football. Giovanni "Cholito" Simeone bid farewell to Naples with an emotional social media post, revealing how painful it was to leave the city that had adopted him like a son.
After three years of goals, passion, and hugs with the fans, the Argentine striker flies to Turin, but makes it clear: "Napoli is a part of me forever."
“These have been difficult days.”
The long and sincere Instagram post begins with a lump in the throat:
Dear Naples, you have no idea how difficult it is for me to write this message. I've tried so many times to think of what and how to say to you, but words aren't enough. These have been tough days. I just want to thank you for everything you've done for me.
Simeone, who arrived in 2022, immediately won over fans not only for his goals (35 in three seasons), but also for his warrior-like determination and deep love for the jersey. A bond that extends beyond the pitch, as his words demonstrate:
"From day one, I felt your affection, and I tried to repay you with all my heart. Now I understand why they told me, 'In Naples, you cry twice.' Yes... you were right."
“I left history here, and no one will forget it”
The reference to Maradona's famous phrase ("In Naples you cry twice: when you arrive and when you leave") is not accidental. Simeon, like El Pibe de Oro, had an all-encompassing experience at Vesuvius, and he admits it without filters:
"But I haven't really left. I left behind friends, memories, and... history. History that no one can ever erase. Naples will always be with me, wherever I go."
Why Simeone will remain a legend at Maradona
The hero of the 2024 Coppa Italia: His brace in the final against Juventus is already legendary.
His gesture to the fans after his goal against Inter: He ran with open arms towards the fans, as if to embrace them all.
That “Cholito” shouted by children in the alleys: In Naples, his nickname has become a symbol of identity.
Simeone will wear the maroon jersey, but his shadow will loom large in Naples. Meanwhile, fans are responding on social media: "Turin will have him, but Cholito is Neapolitan." Some are posting videos of his best goals, and others are promising: "At the San Paolo, we'll always applaud you."
One thing's certain: Naples cries twice, but this time the tears are also of pride. Because, as Simeone says, some loves never end; they become history.
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The letter is emotional, but I believe every player should follow their own path. Napoli will always have a special place in his heart, as it will in ours.
Giovanni did so much for Napoli and will never be forgotten. He was a great striker and will be greatly missed, but I wish Turin all the best.
It's truly sad to see Cholito go, but I understand that's football. Naples is a city that stays in your heart, and Simeone has demonstrated that well. I just hope he returns one day.