Naples is a mad city. It’s big, it’s dirty, it has its problems, a history of mafia-related violence, corruption and just about everything that goes hand in hand with poverty and violence. But the only problem on the agenda in Naples these days is winning the title after a 33-year-long wait.Giovanni Simeone, Napoli’s golden substitute and one of Diego Simeone’s sons says the atmosphere in the city is amazing as the team continues to march towards the much-desired title. And being Argentinean in this city makes it extra special. Speaking to SkySports, Simeone revealed that being Diego Maradona’s compatriot makes him one of the fan favourites.”Being Argentinian here is amazing. Napoli is different. This club represents the history of Italy, the history of Diego Maradona. It is a pleasure for me to play here because every fan sees me as Argentinian and because of Maradona they want to speak to me. It is Maradona, Maradona, Maradona.”Giovanni Simeone scoring a special goal on his UCL debut, dedicated to his UCL tattoo 👏❤️ #giovannisimeone #diegosimeone #simeone #napoli #napolivsliverpool #giovannisimeone💙 #fyp pic.twitter.com/jtxdX4Vpe0— Sportskeeda Football (@skworldfootball) September 8, 2022 Even though Gio hasn’t started a match for the Neapolitans this season yet, he’s made a telling impact when it mattered the most – in the clash with AC Milan, the reigning champions. He scored the winning goal against the Rossoneri and gave Napoli fans a clear indication that their team is a genuine title contender. That day, life became even sweeter for Cholo’s son.”It is not just the club, it is the whole city. Everybody is a fan here. Everybody speaks about football, everybody breathes football. Neapolitans are similar to Argentinians. We speak similarly. We have the same gestures. It feels like home. I am the same as them because football is a passion for me. I am in the right place.”##NAJAVA_MECA_7023430##When he was just 13, the Argentine branded his inner arm with the Champions League ball logo. He had a clear vision for what would happen in the future – he wanted to play at the biggest stage. Father Diego was against it, but the boy showed the stubborness and determination beyond his age. It makes him such an important player for Luciano Spalletti’s side – even if he’s not a starter. He isn’t playing much, but Giovanni’s minutes-per-goal ratio makes him one of the most efficient players around. He’s not thrilled with the role he was given, but he’s determined to make the most of it.”It is not easy to know that you do not start. When the coach tells me that I will be on the bench, it is difficult for me but I always prepare as if I am starting. I need to be ready for everything. Life is like this, you must be ready for the moments that you do have. I am ready for every minute I am given.”Napoli are 15 points clear at the top of the Serie A standings. They are nearing their goal, the Scudetto that felt so elusive for decades. Simeone wants to be a part of such a monumental achievement.
