The Napoli winger Mathias Olivera he spoke to Radio CRC to comment on the start of the season for the Azzurri under Antonio Conte. The first thought is for the drawn match against Juventus: “We played a great match against a great team and we didn’t concede a goal: it’s important, it’s the result of the work that started three months ago and that we’re continuing today. When you have a great coach with so much experience on the bench and as a player you learn a lot: every day I learn from him, like the whole team. We’re improving every aspect, also because I wasn’t used to a formation with a three-man defense. The players have to adapt to the coach’s requests, but I like playing with a back four, even if I help the team regardless of how we line up”.
Now Palermo in the Italian Cup. Is that your goal?
“Yes, now that we’ve played with Juve, we’re looking at Palermo. I think that one more cup to win is always an important goal. We want a full Maradona and we aim to win, thinking game by game.”
The relationship with Spinazzola?
“He’s a great footballer: he kicks with both feet, he’s very strong. Above all, though, he’s a great person.”
And with McTominay?
“It’s impressive. Yes, you can see that he’s strong. He helps the team, he has to continue like this.”
What is it like to live in Naples for a Uruguayan?
“It’s a source of pride, and it’s also true for my family. Napoli is similar to South America, for the climate and the passion. I live it every day with passion. Is Napoli more similar to Nacional or Penarol? To Nacional”.
Is Cavani an idol for you?
“Yes, he is a great Uruguayan player, he has given so much to all of us: for me he is a legend and a beautiful person. Do I prefer him to Suarez? They are both legends of our country, it is impossible to choose or compare them”.
Waiting for my first assist of the season?
“He’s taking a while: let’s hope he arrives soon. I’m thinking about helping the team: that’s the most important thing.”