Napoli sack Mazzarri and bring in Calzona, no Hamsik return | OneFootball

Napoli have dismissed head coach Walter Mazzarri and brought in Slovakia coach Francesco Calzona on a short-term contract.

Partenopei president Aurelio De Laurentiis surprised many by bringing back Mazzarri after a 10-year absence following the Rudi Garcia sacking, and his move did not lead to an uptick in form, with the coach managing just six wins across his 17 games in charge.

De Laurentiis initially planned to wait until the summer to find a long-term replacement for Mazzarri, but continued poor results has prompted him to make a change ahead of Napoli’s Champions League knockout clash with Barcelona.

As detailed by Gianluca Di Marzio, Napoli have communicated their decision to dismiss coach Mazzarri and are now ready to welcome Calzona, who will sign a six-month deal and lead the squad until the end of the season.

Calzona, who is also the manager of the Slovakia national team, will retain his role and lead the country at the European Championship in the summer.

Initial reports suggested Marek Hamsik could join Calzona’s staff at the Partenopei, but various factors ultimately ensured no return in a backroom role.

Calzona will take over the Napoli training session on Tuesday, ahead of their Champions League clash with Barcelona the day after.