Playing behind Diego Maradona, who was at the peak of his abilities, Crippa joined a strong midfield that also included Alemão, Fernando De Napoli and Francesco Romano.
In his first season with the club, Crippa helped Napoli to finish second in Serie A and to win the UEFA Cup, beating VfB Stuttgart in the final.
He scored the decisive goal in the 2–1 quarter-final victory against Sweden at the 1988 Olympics, as Italy reached the semi-finals, eventually finishing the tournament in fourth place.
[6] A hard-working and physically strong team-player, Crippa was known for his dedication, power, tenacity and stamina on the pitch, which enabled him to excel as a ball-winner in midfield and support his more creative and offensive-minded teammates.
[7] Crippa was appointed the sporting director of Renate in Lega Pro Seconda Divisione in the summer of 2010, a position which he currently holds.