Rasmus Hojlund poses as a new SSC Napoli player (Photo by SSC NAPOLI/SSC NAPOLI via Getty Images)
Napoli`s proactive stance in the recent transfer window, anticipating a gruelling season with over fifty matches across the league, Champions League, Coppa Italia, and Supercoppa, has proven to be a wise decision. The club meticulously strengthened its squad from the first day to the last, securing key acquisitions (alongside some sales). Now, as the first truly intense period of fixtures looms, the benefits of their diligent planning are clearly visible.
The current status of Amir Rrahmani is awaiting clarification today, following a morning MRI scan after he sustained an injury during international duty. While caution is paramount, there is also a degree of optimism surrounding his condition. However, muscle injuries demand careful management, especially with a demanding schedule of matches every three days, which poses a significant risk of serious setbacks. In this context, the €30 million (plus €3 million in bonuses) investment in Sam Beukema from Bologna is now viewed as a crucial and timely acquisition. A potential defensive vulnerability had subtly emerged, and Coach Conte, having already coped with Buongiorno`s absence (due to surgery) since the end of last season, had relied on the experienced Juan Jesus while integrating new players. For the upcoming clash against Fiorentina, Rrahmani will likely be given time to recover, even if his injury proves not to be severe. Beukema, therefore, is preparing to step up and potentially make his debut, especially as Buongiorno, a left-footed defender, has only recently returned to full fitness, feeling positive after playing 90 minutes against Avellino on Friday.
Hojlund`s Opportunity Awaits
Every player has a first time, and it`s quite possible that against Fiorentina, Coach Conte will choose to introduce a new signing directly into the starting lineup without hesitation. Rasmus Hojlund barely had a moment to settle in Naples before he had to pack his bags again for international commitments, arranging to rejoin his teammates later in Castel Volturno. Although the national team called (with a match scheduled for tomorrow evening in Greece), Hojlund will return to his new club from Tuesday onwards. He will then have four dedicated training sessions before Saturday to fully immerse himself in his role, a position he will, quite rightly, be competing for with Lucca.
Nevertheless, the Danish forward`s prospects are considerable. His natural inclination to attack deep spaces could be highly advantageous in an open game. Conte remains steadfast in his principles, consistently fielding players who are in peak physical and mental condition. This full week will be crucial for evaluating Hojlund`s current form and his ability to quickly adapt to the team`s tactics. Should he impress, he could emerge as the focal point of Napoli`s attack, aiming to replicate last year`s performance in Florence, where the team demonstrated remarkable authority by securing a victory despite significant personnel absences.
Anguissa`s Delayed Return
A potential complication, primarily due to scheduling, could involve André-Frank Zambo Anguissa. With his exceptional physique, he typically handles jet lag with ease. However, he is scheduled to play for Cameroon on Tuesday evening and will not be able to return to Naples before Wednesday, making him available to the coach only on Thursday. This leaves him with a mere two training sessions to prepare for the Fiorentina match, with the high-stakes Champions League debut against Manchester City also on the immediate horizon.
While no definitive decisions have been made yet, such considerations are always a part of a coach`s daily agenda. Conte boasts several midfield options, including Elmas and Gilmour, available on the bench. Furthermore, his tactical playbook includes the possibility of deploying a trident formation, which would mean one less central midfielder and an additional winger. There’s also Lang – one never knows, with such an abundance of talent, they might just reach for him on the far left flank.
