De Laurentiis barely held back tears during a press conference. What moved the Napoli boss?

11 September marked 20 years since Italian film producer Aurelio De Laurentiis became Napoli's owner. During his reign, the club has managed to overcome the effects of bankruptcy and return to the elite of Italian football, and even celebrate a Scudetto in 2023.

During the celebrations, which were marked by the presentation of a new sponsor, the Napoli boss looked back and talked about the future, which is what touched De Laurentiis:

‘It should be clear to everyone that Napoli will not compromise on anything. We have never been blackmailed and will never be blackmailed, also to protect our players,’ he said.

At these words he stopped, barely holding back tears. Those present around cheered De Laurentiis with applause.

‘Some situations hurt them and our fans around the world. Our main pride is to win by respecting the rules and the people. We will continue to compete with these principles in mind. Twenty years ago I said that my first goal was to revitalise the city of Naples, also through football.

Today, Naples has attracted the attention of the whole world thanks to our support as well. The future of free, sustainable and innovative football must start from Naples.’