Benitez: Napoli slightly ahead of Inter Milan for the Serie A championship, Milan and Juventus still need to strengthen

In an interview with Italian "Sports" Milan, former Inter Milan and Naples coach Benitez talked about the competition for the Serie A championship in the new season. For him, the two teams will compete for the Serie A championship with a two-strong competition, and it is also a reappearance of his own past.

—So, Benitez, what can we expect in the new Serie A season?

Benitez: "It is likely that it is still the old showdown between Naples and Inter Milan. There are two weeks left before the transfer window is closed, and these two teams look the most complete. Other teams may have heavy signings to change the league pattern, but no matter what, these two teams are still the most optimistic protagonists."

-Are you more optimistic about Naples or Inter Milan?

Benitez: "According to common sense, the championship of last season will always be regarded as a hot spot in the new season, which makes sense, especially considering that Conte's team has further expanded its lineup through signings. But don't forget that almost everyone has regarded Inter as a super strong team in the past year. The value of players has not changed. Maybe they are one year older, but aren't the opponents the same? Inter's goal of signing is very clear, and I think they are still very competitive. As for the regret of missing Serie A and Champions League championships last season, it's over. Conte has accumulated 12 months of coaching experience, and he knows how to adjust at key points."

- that is, this is an almost equal showdown?

Benitez: "Napolis has a slight advantage from the moment - they were the champions of last season, which is a fact; they still have Conte in charge, which is bound to be an important factor; they have clear ideas on the tactical level and consolidate the lineup through reasonable signings. In addition to stability, seven or eight veterans who have followed Spaletti remain in the team. Therefore, the protagonist of the championship in the new season is still Napoli against Inter Milan."

- How much impact can the joining of De Bruyne have?

Benitez: "He is a very wise midfielder. He can decide the game and has a strong personality, and will become the absolute core of the team. And this team is not lacking in resilience, which is also the inheritance of their coach."

- How does Naples defend the title?

Benitez: "It is not easy to win the championship in any league, especially in Serie A. But De Bruyne-McTominay can have an impact and leave a mark on the midfield combination. They are midfielders who can enrich their offense in their own way and have good goals scoring abilities. This is by no means a trivial matter, just like their physical fitness: their height advantage can come in handy whether in defense, midfield or offense."

-So what is Inter Milan coached by Zivo?

Benitez: "It is not easy to evaluate without being inside the team. But Inter Milan's lineup is strong and the front line is at the international level. The club has also made future signings, such as Boni, who must grow rapidly around Lautaro and Touram."

—Conte will face Lukaku's long-term absence

Benitez: "This is obviously a problem, because Lukaku is a recognized leader of his coaches and teammates. But football is like this, and he must deal with the troubles caused by injuries. I am sure Conte can pass on his confidence to the team."

—Have the gap between other teams and the top?

Benitez: "Milan has a brilliant history. Their coach Allegri once pioneered a glorious era in Milan and Juventus. They lost Reindez and Teo Hernandez, which is a big lack of technology and personality. But they welcomed Modric - a top master, who is like De Bruyne: maybe someone will question them because of their age, but talented players can always use technology to make up for their physical shortcomings and control the rhythm of the game. It is great to see them compete in the same game."

- Where is the former overlord Juventus?

Benitez: "Juventus is obviously in a transition period, but the lineup is still strong. Last year, they lost Bremer early and failed to have a healthy Kuppmenas, so they lacked some key roles. Now both have returned, but the team still needs to strengthen. They will definitely take action because clubs like Juventus will not stay on the ground. Something will happen before August 31."

- Which team in the new season is the most exciting for you?

Benitez: "There is no doubt Gasperini's Roma. Having such a coach will definitely improve the team, coupled with Ranieri's support. Atlanta was once a model in Europe under his leadership, and his coaching allowed people to see incredible results. Of course, reconstruction takes time and is difficult to achieve overnight, but there is no doubt that Gasperini's influence will be a key factor."