"Luciano Spalletti had the club's emblem inked on to his arm, together with a Scudetto badge, after leading the Partenopei to their third Serie A title in 2023. The design made it appear as though someone had torn into his flesh, revealing his true essence, a connection more than just skin deep. But then he accepted the manager's job at Juventus."
"For many Napoli supporters this was the ultimate sin, joining the club they hate the most. From others there was a measure of understanding. Spalletti had been out of work for four months after being sacked by the Italian national team in the middle of an ailing World Cup qualifying campaign. The opportunity to succeed Igor Tudor in Turin at the end of October was a chance to get his career back on track."
"There is a famous thoroughfare called Spaccanapoli, which translates to Splits Naples and does exactly that cutting through the historic centre of the city. Newspapers riffed on that street name to describe a fanbase divided in two. Amid all the whistles aimed at Spalletti on Sunday night, there were also supporters who applauded when his name was read out at the Maradona."
Luciano Spalletti returned to the Stadio Maradona to hostile whistles after having Napoli's emblem and a Scudetto tattooed on his arm following the 2023 Serie A title. The tattoo’s torn-flesh design suggested a deep, personal connection to the club, yet Spalletti accepted Juventus's managerial position, prompting accusations of betrayal from many Napoli supporters while others offered understanding. Spalletti had been unemployed for four months after his dismissal from the Italian national team, and the chance to replace Igor Tudor in Turin presented an opportunity to revive his career. The tattoo artist defended him, saying memories and professionalism can coexist, and fan reactions remained split.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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