Sarri reveals retirement plans and explains how Milan rejection led to Napoli | OneFootball

Maurizio Sarri opened up about his retirement plans, his love for football and how a failed move to Milan led him to his memorable spell at Napoli.

The 65-year-old Italian coach brought an abrupt end to his three-year spell at Lazio when he unexpectedly resigned back in March, deciding to step away after a difficult campaign in the Italian capital. He was replaced by former Marseille and Hellas Verona tactician Igor Tudor.

Sarri has continued to be linked to various jobs since his Lazio exit, with possible destinations including Milan, Bologna, Torino and Fiorentina. He is expected to take on a new role at the end of this season.

Sarri opens up

Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Sarri first honestly discussed his plans for the remaining years of his career.

“In two to three years I’ll retire and I’ll focus on helping my area and the people who deserve it for what they’ve done over the years.”

He commented on his bond with his local area Figline Valdarno in Tuscany.

“I am anchored in Figline, I grew up in the square. Then I played in the Figline youth team and five years in the first team. I have to give thanks to those who raised me, the coaches and all those who were part of my career.

“And today I’m here having a coffee with my lifelong friend Valerio Pianigiani. Just as in recent days I stopped at a local Under 12 training session and saw real football. I returned home with a sense of happiness.”

Sarri touched on his admiration of former Milan and Italy coach Arrigo Sacchi.

“Arrigo is one of the few who changed football. There is a before Sacchi and an after Sacchi in the last century.”

Finally, Sarri was asked about his failed move to Milan in the past.

“If Berlusconi hadn’t said not to me at Milan, I would’ve have coached that great Napoli.”