This really was a result that made the group interesting. As hard as the group was, people expected the Champions League FINALISTS, to go to Naples and take CARE OF BUSINESS. But with Napoli getting that important early goal, BOTH Weidenfeller and Klopp getting sent off....it was pretty much all over. Now, this makes it all the more interesting.
As I said, it was a tough group before but people did not really know how this new Napoli under Benitez and WITHOUT Cavani would be. Well, what we saw is a team that is going to be very hard to beat and is EXTREMELY well coached. In my opinion, and I love Mazzarri, this looks a better TEAM than with Cavani. They won't come close to winning it all because of a lack of a truly outstanding player. But as a team, they get my money to come out of this group at the expense of either Arsenal or Dortmund with Marseille not being strong enough to pose ANY threat whatsoever.
Mr. Benitez has always seemed like a mercenary to me, going through a few clubs in the past few years. But with the way he was treated at Chelsea, I really feel he is a man that is out on a mission to prove a point. I think this Napoli project is perfect for him and with Higuain and Hamsik given a greater role and a great new talent in Insigne....keep a very watchful eye on this Napoli team.
As I said, every team needs an outstanding player which Napoli do not have. BUT, if anyone IS to be that player...it's the kid on the left. I sense FOOTBALL after only a few seconds of watching a player on the ball. THAT is what I see in Insigne. So if Napoli are to come out of the group, they NEED some away victories at Arsenal and Dortmund. This kid will be crucial because he has the fluid movement and the right psychology to break down a tough defence and create space for Napoli to get a chance. So it is up to Benitez to get the best out of him, and bring in that no-fear youthful exuberance to the fore on the pitch.
Watch for these boys from Naples.......
HH
