Patrick Cutrone struck Empoli's winner as Piotri Zielinski was forced from the pitch after just ten minutes clutching his chest.
“He felt pain in his chest and we didn't even think about keeping him on the pitch for a longer time," Spalletti told DAZN.
“One thinks that something can happen. He was scared by the pain in his chest, so we decided to replace him."
On the defeat, the coach continued: "We didn't have enough quality in the decisive moments. We were not clinical and we made the wrong decisions in crucial moments of the match.
“We should have kept the ball possession, pass the ball quickly and make them lose points of reference. We struggled, we had to run a lot and burn energy.
“Right now, many players are tired and we'd need a favourable episode.
“Elmas picked up a knock in his fibula, it's quite big and evident."
Need a VPN? Or seeking to switch? Then support Tribal Football by clicking here to sign up with our official partners NordVPN. Not only will you receive the best VPN experience, but also great discounts by signing up via Tribal Football. Thanks for your support!