Napoli`s director, Giovanni Manna, addressed Antonio Conte`s recent cautionary remarks and the significant team alterations planned for their match against Milan tonight. Manna asserted that the club`s current roster possesses the necessary strength to secure a Champions League qualification spot.
The game is scheduled to commence at San Siro at 19:45 UK time (18:45 GMT).
This encounter marks a significant challenge for the reigning Italian champions, Napoli, who have maintained a perfect Serie A record this season. Their only defeat came in Europe against Manchester City, a match they played with ten men.
Napoli Balancing Ambition with Humility
Antonio Conte recently stated that Napoli has primarily acquired players who require development rather than those immediately ready to compete for titles. Manna was asked if the club aligns with this perspective.
“Yes, we have consistently highlighted the need for greater squad depth, and we`ve introduced many new players over the past two years,” Manna explained to DAZN Italia. “Napoli`s development is a process that demands patience, and we remain confident. We should not succumb to negativity if we encounter a few poor results; it`s an inherent part of our trajectory, and we are here to offer our full support.”
The team faces significant challenges due to numerous injuries, with Romelu Lukaku, Leonardo Spinazzola, Mathias Olivera, Alessandro Buongiorno, and Amir Rrahmani all unavailable for the match.
In response to these absences, Luca Marianucci and Miguel Gutierrez are set to make their debut for Napoli, both being included in the starting lineup following their transfers from Empoli and Girona, respectively.
As the current Italian champions, is Napoli considered the primary contender to win the Scudetto once more?
“We earned the Scudetto through our performance on the field and are committed to defending it with the same daily determination,” Manna stated. “We understand that our squad possesses the capability to secure a Champions League spot. However, once in the Champions League, the level of competition is significantly higher.
Domestically, Milan continues to prove itself as a formidable team, a testament to their coach`s efforts, but we are fully focused on defending our Scudetto title.”
The match also represents a reunion for Manna, who previously collaborated with Milan coach Max Allegri during their time at Juventus.
“We had a brief conversation earlier with Conte,” Manna recounted. “We share a close bond; Allegri is an excellent individual, and I wish him all the best in his future endeavors, though naturally, I hope he finishes behind us in the league standings!”
