Mazzarri confident of retaining trio

Napoli coach Walter Mazzarri insists that he will hold on to all three of his prized assets – Edinson Cavani, Ezequiel Lavezzi and Marek Hamsik.

The attacking trio, who were an integral part of Napoli’s successful campaign last year, which saw them reach the Champions League, have been attracting interest from across Europe.

However, Mazzarri was in a defiant mood regarding keeping hold of his most important talents.

“Sometimes it is better to give in to a player who wants to leave as he is no longer motivated but that is not the case with us. Cavani, Lavezzi and Hamsik will remain at Napoli – that is their wish,” he said.

“I spoke to Marek just yesterday and I could tell he was looking forward to starting the new season. He is keen to stay. He is an attacking player with unique qualities and in my view, he must not be sold.”

However, Napoli chairman Aurelio De Laurentiis opened the door to a move away from Naples for Argentine forward Lavezzi, who has recently attracted interest from Manchester City, Atletico Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.

“Like with all players, he is in the hands of his agent. I hope he makes the right decision. The player has a release clause and we cannot do anything. I would hate it if he were to leave,” he said.