Rrahmani credits high press for Napoli's win over Bologna

The Kosovan centre-back broke down Napoli's improved second half after the 1-0 win, and praised the Gilmour-Lobotka double pivot in midfield.

by Gennaro SanninoSunday 13 September, 21:36 CET· 2 hours ago

Amir Rrahmani —

Speaking to Sky Sport after Napoli's 1-0 win over Bologna on Sunday 13 September, Amir Rrahmani was self-critical about the first half: "In the first half we needed to manage the ball better: we rushed too much and gave away too many counter-attacks." He pointed to the fix for the second half: "If we concede too many crosses anything can happen, because we all end up bunched together and it's harder to defend."

If we're the ones pressing high, everything is easier.

Rrahmani also praised the double pivot in front of the defence, Gilmour and Lobotka: "They help us a lot with the ball: they both come to collect it, and then one of them can try to go forward. Tonight's goal is the proof, with Lobotka getting on the scoresheet." Speaking to DAZN, he added: "We need that attitude all the time, it wasn't easy after three defeats" — a reference to the consecutive losses to Como, Inter and Arsenal that preceded the Bologna game.

He had praise for team-mates too, singling out Rafa Marín ("he's become strong") and young Favasuli, whose assist set up Lobotka's goal: "Let's hope he keeps this up." Napoli move to 6 points, ninth after four matchdays, with the same high press needed again on Sunday 20 September at 12:30 CET away to Fiorentina.