Promoted Parma welcome surprising early-season contenders Udinese to Stadio Tardini on Monday in an intriguing Serie A matchup. Both teams have exceeded expectations so far, with Udinese sitting fourth in the table on seven points while Parma occupies ninth place with four points.
Parma’s return to the top flight has been eventful, highlighted by a shock victory over AC Milan. However, their momentum was halted by a heartbreaking late collapse against Napoli before the international break. Manager Fabio Pecchia has put his faith in youth, fielding the youngest average starting lineup in Serie A so far this season.
Team News
The hosts will be without suspended goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, with Leandro Chichizola set to deputize. Injuries may also rule out Emanuele Valeri, Nahuel Estevez and Adrian Benedyczak. Parma’s attack is likely to remain unchanged, spearheaded by Yoan Bonny with support from wingers Valentin Mihaila and Dennis Man.
Udinese enters the match in fine form under new coach Kosta Runjaic. The Friulani are unbeaten in eight league games dating back to last season and have already notched impressive wins over Lazio and Como this campaign. A victory would see them win three of their first four Serie A matches for just the third time in club history.
The visitors will be without veteran striker Alexis Sanchez but welcome back Hassane Kamara from suspension. Florian Thauvin and Brenner are expected to support Lorenzo Lucca up front in Udinese’s 3-4-2-1 formation.
While Parma has historically dominated this fixture, winning four of the last seven meetings, Udinese’s strong start makes them slight favorites. However, the Gialloblu will be eager to bounce back from their Napoli disappointment and maintain their unbeaten home record. An entertaining and closely-fought contest appears likely at the Tardini.
Expected starting XI’s
Parma: Chichizola; Del Prato, Balogh, Circati, Coulibaly; Bernabe, Keita; Man, Sohm, Mihaila; Bonny
Udinese: Okoye; Perez, Bijol, Giannetti; Ehizibue, Payero, Karlstrom, Kamara; Thauvin, Brenner; Lucca
