Napoli’s Elmas: This role suits me, on Lukaku and Conte | OneFootball

Eljif Elmas speaks to the microphones of Napoli’s partner radio station, discussing his role on the field, his relationship with his teammates, and the ambitions of the Azzurri squad for this season.

Napoli, Elmas talks about his current moment: “This role is perfect. On Lukaku and Conte…”

“Winning the Italian Super Cup was wonderful, our first trophy of the season. After the Scudetto, bringing this cup home was very important. We played two very good matches in Riyadh and returned to Naples with a real Christmas present,” Elmas explains. “We faced two quality teams like Milan and Bologna, so we knew we had to give our all on the pitch.”

The ideal role: a utility player with offensive qualities

Regarding his position on the field, Elmas emphasizes: “Being a utility player isn’t easy, there are many challenges. I like playing behind the striker. After five weeks as a defensive midfielder, I’m finally returning to the role where I can express myself best. This position is perfect because it allows you to score goals, dribble, and provide assists.”

Conte’s instructions: understanding in order to grow

Elmas also talks about his approach with the coach: “I’m trying to really understand what Mister Conte is asking of me in order to make a leap in quality. When I played as a defensive midfielder, his requests were different, and it’s not always easy to understand everything (he laughs). Against Milan and Bologna, in the new role, some dynamics change and I’m trying to follow his instructions as much as possible.”

Relationship with Lukaku: experience and leadership

About his teammate: “Lukaku is a great player, with a lot of experience. He helps the younger players and knows how to be a team man. He has won many trophies and played so many matches, so his experience is fundamental for motivating us as well. I’d really like to play alongside him, because he can give a great mental and technical contribution.”

The next Serie A challenge: Cremonese

“Cremonese is a team that knows how to surprise, they’ve already taken important points against big clubs. Every match in Serie A is tough. We have to stay focused, follow the coach’s instructions, and get the 3 points, which are crucial to end the year well.”

Memories of the 2023 Scudetto with Spalletti

Elmas doesn’t hide the emotions of winning the title: “The emotions of the Scudetto with Spalletti can’t be described, they have to be lived. Winning after 33 years in Naples was special. Even for those who saw Maradona, lifting the trophy again after so long was indescribable.”

Spalletti’s Napoli vs Conte’s Napoli

Finally, a reflection on the team’s changes: “Spalletti’s Napoli focused a lot on ball possession. Both teams have a lot of quality, but Conte’s is more physical. They are two different Napolis, but both well built and competitive at the international level.”

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇮🇹 here.