Former Inter and Fiorentina midfielder Borja Valero has revealed a story that shows how current Napoli coach Luciano Spalletti could occasionally be very superstitious whilst in charge of the Nerazzurri.

Speaking to Italian broadcaster DAZN, via FCInterNews, the Spaniard explained that the coach attributed a bit of a lack of form to the player having decided to shave off a long beard.

During his long time in Italian football, Spalletti has gained a reputation for being something of an eccentric character in certain respects.

The former Roma, Udinese, and Zenit St. Petersburg coach has certainly won plaudits for the style of football his teams play, particularly this Napoli side.

However, on the touchline and especially behind the scenes, the coach has never made any attempt to hide some odd habits, which have included some superstitions related to performances on the pitch.

Valero related on anecdote regarding this side of the coach’s character, recalling that “I had a long beard because of a promise to my children, and I hadn’t cut it in months when I got to Inter.”

“Five days before the start of the season, I finally cut it,” he continued.

“I missed a ball in training, then two, then three.”

“Spalletti counted,” Valero looked back, “one, two, three.”

“You shouldn’t have shaved off your beard.”

“He can be very superstitious,” the Spaniard explained.