'I cried in despair with my wife': Mexican international recalls drama with Gattuso

Hirving Lozano's experience at Napoli under Gennaro Gattuso's leadership was marked by a series of challenges and disappointments, as the Mexican international struggled to find his footing in the team. 

Gattuso, a former midfielder known for his gritty playing style and assertive coaching approach, took charge of Napoli in 2019. His tenure, though short-lived until 2021, had a profound impact on the squad, particularly on players like Lozano.

Lozano's recount of his time under Gattuso paints a picture of a difficult period in his career. He described how Gattuso, unfamiliar with his abilities and preferred playing position, did not engage with him initially. This lack of communication and understanding between the player and the coach led to Lozano feeling undervalued and overlooked, a sentiment that can significantly affect an athlete's performance and morale.

The emotional toll of this professional struggle was significant for Lozano. He shared that it was a "terrible year" where he often found himself in despair, discussing his frustrations with his wife. The feeling of being capable yet not given the opportunity to prove oneself can be demoralizing, and for a footballer at the highest level, such situations can be particularly challenging.

Lozano's situation began to change in the second year, as Gattuso started to engage more with him. This shift in dynamics highlights the importance of communication and mutual understanding in professional sports. The improvement in their relationship indicates that both Lozano and Gattuso made efforts to bridge the gap, leading to better interactions and understanding.

Despite these improvements, Lozano eventually left Napoli in September to join PSV in the Netherlands, a move that possibly offered him a fresh start and more opportunities to showcase his talent. On the other hand, Gattuso moved on to become the head coach of Marseille, continuing his career in football management.

Lozano's experience under Gattuso at Napoli is a reflection of the complexities and challenges that arise in professional sports, where player-coach dynamics can significantly impact a player's experience and performance. It also underscores the resilience and adaptability of athletes in navigating their careers amidst various challenges. For Lozano, the move to PSV could represent a new chapter and a chance to rejuvenate his career in a different environment.