Mazzarri leaves second-placed Napoli

Napoli head coach Walter Mazzarri has quit the Serie A runners-up, claiming he has achieved all he can with the southerners.

Mazzarri has argued Napoli’s players ‘need some new stimulation’ after his stint of almost four seasons with the club, while the 51-year-old Italian coach hinted that he may be tempted to continue his coaching career somewhere else.

Having taken over at Napoli in October 2009, Mazzarri led the Neapolitans to their first title in over 10 years when they took out the 2011/12 Coppa Italia, while he also took the club into the UEFA Champions League for the first time during his tenure.

But after steering Napoli into second place in Serie A this season, ensuring they will play in the Champions League again, Mazzarri has claimed he cannot squeeze anymore out of the squad.

“I’ve taken Napoli as far as I can and I’ve put all my strength into this team and I think I have fulfilled the mandate in the right way,” Mazzarri told Napoli’s official website.

“I thank (president Aurelio) De Laurentiis and (director of sport Riccardo) Bigon who tried to change my mind but I think it’s time to go and sit still for a few months or even try a new challenge.

“It depends on the offers.

“Naples has a precious treasure and a solid club which is very healthy, and I think they will have a bright future.”

Mazzarri told his players before Napoli’s 2-1 loss to Roma on Sunday.

“Napoli is a marvellous place but I am leaving after four years because the players need some new stimulation,” Mazzarri said.

“I’ve talked to the lads in the changing room and the president, I was emotional and I hugged everybody.

“I thank the fans… and all of those who’ve been close to me in these wonderful years.

“I took this decision some time ago.

“Out of respect, though, I wanted the players to be able to give their all right to the end, which they did.”