Politano explains how Napoli can beat Eintracht Frankfurt: ‘They will leave gaps’

Matteo Politano is hoping that Napoli bounce back from their disappointing 6-2 loss against PSV Eindhoven last time out in the Champions League when the Partenopei take on Eintracht Frankfurt on Tuesday evening, and has explained how his side can get the better of the Germans on the night: ‘We will find more space’. 

Napoli currently sit at the top of the Serie a standings, but have fared less well in the Champions League so far this season, currently sitting in 23rd place in the table with three points from their first three matches in the competition. 

The Partenopei were humbled 6-2 away against PSV last time out in Europe, and now have an opportunity to respond when they take on Eintracht in Frankfurt, who sit level on points with Antonio Conte’s side after three matches. 

Politano, speaking at his pre-match press conference on Monday, explained that there has not been much time for Napoli to prepare for the Eintracht match, following their 0-0 draw with Como on Saturday. 

“We still have to prepare for it, we’ve got to get on the pitch this afternoon and we’ll have an opportunity to prepare in the best possible way.

“As I’ve always said, I try to give my best on the pitch. I’ll do better in some matches, and less so in others, especially when you’re playing every three days. But for years now, the team and I have been giving our best to honour this jersey.” 

Politano was asked how he and the team plan to bounce back from their 6-2 defeat against PSV. 

He replied: “We need to carry that inside us. We took a good beating and you have to remember that every now and again. You have to come out fast in the Champions League, otherwise you risk making a bad impression. We did well to react against Inter, Lecce, even Como, but we have to always be at 100%.” 

Reporters asked Politano if he is aiming to add more goals to his game given that he has only scored three times in his last 52 appearances. 

“Of course, it weighs on me, but I’m always here for the team,” he said. “Of course, I’d like to score more goals and get more assists, but they’re not coming at the moment, and we have to think about the team and what the coach asks of us. I will try to improve on that.

“We’re at a good point. This year, we’ve not had as many players available as we do right now. It’s still not an excuse. Playing every three days, having so many players out, we feel the fatigue and in some games, you don’t get to the highest level, but that’s where we need to be tomorrow and we have to win at all costs.” 

Politano was asked if he thinks the Eintracht game will bring an opportunity for Napoli to improve upon their Champions League goal difference. 

“Yes, they’ve conceded five goals two games in a row, but they also put five past Galatasaray.” Politano replied. 

“It will be important for us to approach it well and score as many goals as possible, but the important thing is the three points. We play better against teams that play openly, we find more space, they will leave gaps.”