Stanislav Lobotka (foto: /)
In a recent interview, Stanislav Lobotka shared his experiences at Napoli, including the exuberant celebrations with fans after a win, his adjustment to the Italian lifestyle, and his personal investments in funds and real estate for post-football financial security.
Stanislav Lobotka spoke to the American magazine Forbes in a recent interview conducted in July and published recently. Lobotka discussed various aspects of his time in Napoli, including the celebrations after winning the league title, where he humorously mentioned how fans took everything except his underwear. He also touched on the topic of player valuations in the football market and shared his personal investment strategy.
Regarding Napoli and the celebrations, Lobotka said,
"The celebrations were beautiful, it's hard to describe them in words. Neapolitans are known for their passion for football. It was fantastic; we all enjoyed the atmosphere. At least they left me in my underwear. After the victory against Udinese, the fans stormed the pitch, taking everything from us, leaving me with just my underwear.
One fan had one of my shoes, and another had the other. I told them, 'You can keep them; no problem!' They almost tore my legs off, taking everything, including shin guards and shirts. Three days later, I had another game and thought I wouldn't have anything to play with! It was such primal euphoria."
He also mentioned his agent's statement that Napoli wouldn't sell him for less than €40 million, to which Lobotka humorously responded:
"I'd value myself at five million (laughs), but De Laurentiis would chase me away. Of course, he has a different opinion on that. The transfer market is just like this: players are sold for €120 million, which, in my opinion, are already terribly high sums for a footballer. I can't understand such enormous amounts."
Lobotka also shared his thoughts on Italy and Napoli, saying:
"I'm still getting used to how they drive there. Napoli is a place you either love or don't; there's no middle ground. There's more dirt roads, and the traffic isn't ideal, but on the other hand, I like the mentality: people are friendly and modest.
There's excellent food; what can I do? You have Capri, the islands, the sea. When you agree to meet at five, you have to ask if it's the normal time or 'Napoli time.' They aren't in a hurry; they're not stressed. Only when driving."
Lastly, Lobotka revealed his investment strategy, saying,
"I invest about 15-20 percent of my income in investment funds to make money profitable. It's also my 'pension' after my football career. I invest some of it in real estate in Slovakia and abroad." When asked about Italy, he replied, "I prefer Spain, the Canary Islands.
"I've also invested in football, in a club in Podbrezová, which plays in the top Slovak league. I already knew Vladimír Soták, the club's president and co-owner, as well as the club's general manager, Mir Poliacek. They convinced me with their strategy, philosophy, choice of coach, how they want to play, and their direction in football."