Napoli president Aurelio de Laurentiis has told fans to be realistic about their expectations.

While they are through to the last 16 of the Europa League, Napoli are 13 points adrift of Serie A leaders Juventus and attendances have plummeted.

De Laurentiis said, “There is this habitual sensation of the fans being disappointed in the stadium. We'll fight to the end. If someone crumbles at the first hurdle, then he is a failure in life. If he doesn't want to be a failure, he keeps fighting to the end. It's not just who finishes first that wins. We all win if we play with capability and fervour.

“I mean, if I had created a €200m debt with the banks to sign one player, what would be the point in winning? Let's think of the right recipe for success, here."