Napoli Patch Things Up with Veteran, Prepare Renewal

After some tension in the past few days, Napoli have mended fences with Mario Rui, who will soon add one extra year to his contract, which will run until 2026. The fullback had contemplated leaving while the negotiation was stalling, but the issues have been sorted, Gianluca Di Marzio informs.

The 32-year-old has been at the club since 2017 when he initially joined on a loan move from Roma and was bought out the ensuing summer. He has collected nearly 200 appearances across all competitions since.

His agent Mario Giuffredi suggested that the root of the problem between Rui and Napoli was primarily economic in an interview with TVPlay (via SportMediaset).

“He wants to continue with them. It has always been his wish. We asked to extend the contract by one year even accepting a small reduction of his wages. It’s very unusual, since winning the title usually coincides with a pay hike. Our proposal certifies his love for these colors.”

“The president didn’t meet our request despite several contacts. I think Aurelio De Laurentiis doesn’t recognize the value of my client, which is absurd. In terms of statistics, he’s one of the best fullbacks in Serie A.”

Our Take on Napoli and Rui

The back-and-forth reached slightly uncomfortable levels, but a little nudge apparently was enough to do the trick.