Napoli sporting director Mauro Meluso has explained the sacking of Walter Mazzarri.

Mazzarri was axed and replaced by Francesco Calzona this week.

Meluso explained: "I repeat the words of the president, it was a painful choice to sack Mazzarri.

"The club decided to do so, we had created an excellent feeling with Mazzarri but we decided to change. He could give a spark to the team and then the new coach he can put his ideas in.

"Calzona has already worked in Naples, within the coaches the choice fell on him knowing him already and he has concepts that underline the physiognomy of this team."