On the surface of things, a top half finish has been an incredible improvement for Empoli this season but there is still a lingering sense of disappointment about this campaign. Perhaps that is a little harsh considering all the issues the club had to face during the summer with their inspirational manager, Maurizio Sarri, leaving for Napoli and taking key players with him. It looked an uphill challenge for new boss Marco Giampaolo but, in reality, he has significantly improved on Sarri's 15th place finish from last season. So why the disappointment? It could stem from the fact that Empoli were extremely inconsistent. They started the season dreadfully with a Coppa Italia exit to Vicenza being the most embarrassing of seven defeats from their opening nine matches. It looked like the transition from the summer was going to cost the club heavily but then they suddenly hit form. Just three defeats from their next 13 matches made Empoli serious contenders for European qualification at the turn of the year. However, it would all fall apart in the run-in and they had to settle for 10th place. The football wasn't quite as expansive and exciting as under Sarri. Riccardo Saponara remained the gem in the team with his consistent contributions in terms of goals and assists. The club will struggle to hold onto him in the summer. The manager has already decided to leave which was something of a surprise but perhaps his contribution this season will be more appreciated in years to come. Giovanni Martusciello has been promoted after years as assistant manager and it will be a hard act for him to follow.
