Aurelio de Laurentiis (foto: Getty Images)
Rudi Garcia, now the head coach of the Belgium national team, has reflected on his brief and turbulent spell at Napoli, pointing out that club president Aurelio De Laurentiis was the biggest obstacle to his success.
The Frenchman took over Napoli in 2023, following Luciano Spalletti’s departure after leading the club to the Serie A title. However, Garcia lasted just 16 matches (8 wins, 4 draws, 4 losses) before being dismissed.
Looking back on his time in Naples, Garcia believes he was judged too quickly.
“I was fourth, we were practically in the Champions League knockout rounds. In the end, they finished tenth. I'm not saying I did everything right, but the results proved that I was right and the club president was not,” Garcia told L’Equipe.
While he enjoyed the atmosphere at the club, Garcia highlighted De Laurentiis’ constant interference in coaching decisions as a major issue.
“I liked everything about Napoli, from the city, the fans, to the team. I just didn’t like the president’s interference,” he added.
With Napoli struggling to recapture last season’s dominance, Garcia’s words add another layer to the debate over De Laurentiis’ involvement in football decisions at the club.