The countdown to Juventus-Napoli is accompanied by an increasingly worrying forecast for Antonio Conte. While awaiting the official arrival of Giovane from Verona, and following the transfers of Lucca to Nottingham Forest and Lang to Galatasaray, the Italian coach must contend with a skeleton squad for Sunday night's match at the Allianz Stadium.
The latest setback concerns Frank Anguissa. The midfielder seemed close to returning from a muscle injury, but a sudden and severe back pain has compromised his recovery. This significant absence adds to that of Neres, whose recovery time is further extended and the possibility of ankle surgery has not been ruled out.
Napoli, tasked with keeping pace with league leaders Inter, arrive in Turin with virtually forced choices. Lukaku is available but only for a short time in the second half, while Conte is evaluating options on the flanks, with Mazzocchi a possible starter on the right and Di Lorenzo dropped back into the defensive trio. Spinazzola's condition also remains to be monitored after the knock he suffered in Copenhagen, with Gutierrez ready in case he misses out.
Lobotka remains the key player in midfield, flanked by McTominay, while Vergara, Hojlund, and Elmas will try to sting a Juventus side that is the favorite to start. This is a tough match, and Napoli will have to rely more on character than rotation.
Source EDITORIAL TEAM
Comments (1)
Napoli's situation seems a bit worrying to me, especially the lack of key players like Anguissa and Neres. The squad is small, and I don't know how they'll compete with Juventus on Sunday.