Napoli mourning for Daniele, 13-year-old fan who became part of the team | OneFootball

Napoli are in mourning after their 13-year-old fan Daniele lost his battle with leukaemia today, as he had become something of a mascot who bonded with the squad.

The news of his death arrived this afternoon and coach Antonio Conte was too shaken to attend the post-match media duties following the 3-0 victory away to Fiorentina.

Assistant manager Cristian Stellini was visibly moved when explaining the situation to DAZN and in his press conference.

President Aurelio De Laurentiis also released a statement via social media.

“Dear Daniele, you gave us months of joy by staying so close to us. Despite your illness, you passed on your strength, courage and joy to us.

“We dedicate this victory to you and know that you will continue watching us from up there, with the same love. You will always remain in our hearts.”

Napoli adopted Daniele as a mascot

GENOA, ITALY – DECEMBER 21: Frank Anguissa of Napoli celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between Genoa and Napoli at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on December 21, 2024 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)

According to reports, Daniele had been diagnosed with leukaemia in 2023 and met with the team because it was his wish before surgery to spend time at the pre-season training retreat.

Since then, he had been adopted as something of a mascot by the squad, and in recent weeks Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa had celebrated goals by showing a message written on a wristband: ‘Forza Daniele.’

When he was unable to attend the matches at the stadium, Conte would phone him to make sure he felt included.

Edoardo De Laurentiis, vice-president of the club and son of President Aurelio, also had a message on his Instagram Stories with an image of Daniele celebrating with the players.

“Bon voyage our big little champion. You fought like a warrior right to the end.”

Captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo shared a picture of Daniele celebrating with him. “You will always be with us.”

Leonardo Spinazzola also spoke about their rapport with Daniele in his press conference in Florence.

“He will be watching us from up there now. We’ll miss him a great deal, he taught us so much.”