With Lavezzi leaving, and Cavani following, it seemed that Napoli could only fall. Even with new recruits, an inability to sign big names to replace their stars, it was inevitable that they would struggle. But it's a testament to the brilliant coaching of Benitez that Napoli are right in the Scudetto hunt and may sneak their way through the hardest Champions League group. One must RESPECT Benitez and his ability to coach a team. His one and ONLY blip in his career came in an Inter team that was on a quick downward spiral. From Valencia to Chelsea, Benitez has had some form of success. Say what you want about his very pragmatic and solid style, the man know how to get the best out of a team.
Napoli go into the weekend with a nice test against the champions. My pick is still Juventus to retain their crown. Remember, squads win leagues, not teams. But Benitez is definitely aiming to do the INCREDIBILE with Napoli. When you have that amazing crowd behind you, and THE best announcer in the world, you have to give something back. So I know that Benitez is quietly plotting a way for Napoli to win the league. Yes, it's a very tall order and they easily have the weakest squad of the three challengers for the crown. But if by some miracle, he can keep Higuain, Hamsik and Insigne fit for the bulk of the season, then they have a great chance. It's still very early days, but Benitez is getting a rhythm out of them. And if ever there was a great way to prepare for the Juventus match, then it was coming back and BEATING Marseille. That meant that it ain't over with regards to who goes through that group. It also meant that this Napoli team have a fighter's instinct. With that home crowd and Napoli playing to them, it will put them in great stead to cause an upset.
Chelsea fans in time I am sure will be thankful to Benitez. After treating him so unfairly, and then seeing their team bring yet another trophy, they will be thankful. Perhaps, Benitez will want to prove to his detractors like Ferguson, Mourinho and the Chelsea fans of his talents. If he is to somehow bring the trophy to Naples, then many will have to raise their hands and applaud what Rafa has achieved. He may not be a Mourinho, but he has shown he can be successful in at least two countries, with some unfinished business he needs to take care of in Italy.
HH
