Napoli Legend Steps into Team Manager Role
Although Marek Hamšík has retired from professional football he will still have a significant presence at Euro 2024. The former Napoli star is now sporting a more reserved haircut in contrast to his iconic spiked mohican and has traveled to Germany with the Slovakian national team.
Hamšík who was once a key figure in Slovakian football history has now taken on the role of team manager. Thus, offering his experience and support off the pitch.
A Glorious Career Comes to an End
Marek Hamšík retired at the end of the 2022/23 season concluding a remarkable 21-year playing career. Most notably he spent 12 years at Napoli where he became a club legend.
During his time with the Serie A giants, Hamšík made 520 appearances and scored 121 goals providing 103 assists. His contributions helped Napoli secure three major trophies.
Hamšík was equally influential for Slovakia. He holds the record for the most international appearances with 138 caps and is the country’s top scorer with 26 goals.
Even in the Euro 2024 qualifiers, he demonstrated his dedication by setting up a crucial goal in a 2-1 victory over Iceland.
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Hamšík’s New Role with Slovakia
Though Hamšík won’t be playing at Euro 2024 his impact on the Slovakian team remains profound. As team manager Hamšík is responsible for ensuring the players’ needs are met and everything runs smoothly behind the scenes.
Slovakia’s head coach, Francesco Calzona, expressed his admiration for Hamšík’s character and influence, stating,
If I had a son, I would want him to be someone like Marek Hamšík, because he is very humble despite his career as a champion. He is straightforward, and everyone loves him. I’ve realized how important he is for Slovakia because I’ve never heard anyone speak ill of him or say anything negative about him.
Calzona also reflected on their strong bond, which began during Hamšík’s time at Napoli.
Apart from being a colleague, he’s a great friend. Throughout his years at Napoli we built a great relationship in a quiet way. We had a certain chemistry between us and then went our separate ways, but we continued to text each other. When we met again it felt as if no time had passed at all.
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Slovakia’s Greatest Player Supports from the Sidelines
As Slovakia competes in Euro 2024 Hamšík’s presence even off the field is expected to inspire and motivate the team.
His role as team manager allows him to continue contributing to Slovakian football. Thus, guiding the next generation of players with the same dedication and passion he displayed throughout his illustrious career.