Insigne: ‘I would have played for Napoli for free’

Former Italy international Lorenzo Insigne insists that he would have returned and played for free had Napoli afforded him the opportunity, but insists that there are no hard feelings after seeing a return to the Stadio Maradona fall through.

The 34-year-old Neopolitan spent 12 years in the Partenopei first team, scoring 122 goals from 434 appearances across all competitions before leaving to join Toronto FC in MLS in the summer of 2022. 

Over the last 18 months, there have been plenty of rumours linking Insigne with a return to Serie A, and also to his beloved Napoli. He did eventually end up returning to Italy, but to Serie B with Pescara rather than to the top flight. 

Speaking to Sky Sport Italia on Wednesday, Insigne revealed that his agent had been in contact with Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manna over a potential return to the Stadio Maradona in January, and also claims that he offered to play for free. 

“About 20 days ago, there was a call from the director Manna to my agent, who discussed the possibility of a return. I gave my availability, also to return playing for free, but they made other choices,” Insigne told Sky. 

“To repeat, I didn’t take it personally, because more than anything, I’m still a massive Napoli supporter. 

“I’m sorry that Napoli have fallen behind a bit (in the Serie A table), but I hope and believe that Napoli will have their say. 

“I’ve felt so much affection from the fans over the last few months. This is Napoli, it fills me with joy because after 12 years in Naples, even if I didn’t win the Scudetto, I still left my mark.”