I. Paradiso (1984-1991): The Maradona Era and Socio-political Triumph

This period marks Napoli's golden age, fueled by the arrival of Diego Maradona in 1984. The article highlights:

• Unprecedented success: Napoli won two Scudetti (1987, 1990), a UEFA Cup (1989), a Coppa Italia, and an Italian Super Cup.

"Maradona’s tenure in Naples, from 1984 to 1991, brought the Partenopei an unprecedented level of success."

• Maradona as a cultural icon: His genius on the field and his flawed persona off it resonated with Neapolitans, blurring the lines between football and religion.
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• Socio-political significance: Napoli's triumph challenged the traditional North-South divide in Italian football, signifying a victory for the Mezzogiorno (Southern Italy).

"Napoli’s first title was not just historic in footballing terms, it also had broader socio-political connotations. At a time when the hostile, anti-southern politics of the regionalist and separatist Lega Nord party were finding expression in Italy’s terraces, Napoli’s success was a symbolic act of defiance."

• The strength of the team: While Maradona was the focal point, the article acknowledges the contributions of a strong supporting cast, including players like Bruscolotti, Ferrara, Careca, and Zola, and coaches like Bianchi and Bigon.

II. Purgatorio (1991-1998): Maradona's Departure and the Beginning of Decline

Maradona's departure in 1991 marked the beginning of a slow and painful decline for Napoli. Key points include:

• Over-reliance on Maradona: The club's overdependence on their star player left them vulnerable when his personal life spiraled out of control, ultimately leading to his ban in 1991 for cocaine use.

"It’s never a healthy balance to pile one’s hopes and dreams on an individual, no matter how bright the star."

• Financial mismanagement: President Ferlaino's extravagant spending and involvement in the Tangentopoli scandal created substantial debts.
• Fire sale of star players: To alleviate financial pressure, Napoli was forced to sell key players like Zola, Cannavaro, Ferrara, and Carbone, weakening the squad and signaling a shift in power back to the North.
• Relegation to Serie B: Despite the efforts of coaches like Ranieri, Lippi, and Boskov, Napoli's decline culminated in their relegation in 1998 after 33 years in Serie A.

III. Inferno (1998-2004): Financial Ruin and Bankruptcy

This period represents the darkest chapter in Napoli's history. The article outlines:

• False hope and further decline: A brief return to Serie A under Novellino was followed by another relegation, fueled by disastrous coaching appointments (Zeman) and risky transfer decisions (Edmundo, Amauri).

"Within two years, under the auspices of coach Walter Novellino, Napoli had returned to Serie A. But of all the hands dealt to Napoli fans, this false hope was perhaps the cruellest."

• Continued mismanagement: Ownership changes and scandals involving Corbelli and Naldi exacerbated the club's financial woes.
• Bankruptcy: In 2004, burdened by debts of €79m, Napoli was declared bankrupt and forced to start anew in Serie C.
• Fan disillusionment: The club's demise led to frustration and anger among fans, resulting in threats and violence against players and management.

While Napoli has recovered from its disastrous fall, the article emphasizes the lasting impact of the experience on the club and its fans, serving as a stark reminder of the dangers of overspending, mismanagement, and over-reliance on individual stars.

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