Maurizio Sarri succeeds Rafael Benitez at Napoli
Friday 12 June 2015 10:57, UK
Napoli have named former Empoli manager Maurizio Sarri as their new coach following the departure of Rafael Benitez.
The 56-year-old, who resigned from Empoli earlier this month, has signed a one-year deal with an option of a further 12 months after Benitez left to take charge of Real Madrid.
Sarri won promotion to Serie A in his second season in Tuscany and finished last campaign in 15th place, eight points above the drop zone.
However, Empoli impressed with a series of results under Sarri that included victories over Palermo and Lazio and draws against Napoli, Fiorentina, Roma and AC Milan.
Sarri, usually unshaven, is known for his trademark tracksuits and smoking the odd cigarette on the touchlines but he has also earned respect for a tactical approach which exploits set-pieces and dead-ball situations.
Benitez left the Stadio San Paolo last week after failing to secure third place and entry to the qualifying play-offs for next season's Champions League, and has since signed for Real.
