In a significant transfer move, Napoli’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has finalized a lucrative mid-season deal to join Paris Saint-Germain, much to the disappointment of coach Antonio Conte, who’s preparing his Napoli side to face Atalanta.
As the Partenopei aim to continue their impressive run of form, David Neres is likely continue to support Romelu Lukaku, who has recently contributed to Napoli’s attack with one goal and three assists in his last two outings.
Despite Kvaratskhelia’s departure, Napoli will have to cope without their key center-back, Alessandro Buongiorno, who is sidelined due to injury. Juan Jesus is expected to step in as his replacement, while Mathias Olivera is set to return to the left-back position.
On the other side, Atalanta may welcome back Juan Cuadrado after his recent absence, leaving only Sead Kolasinac, Gianluca Scamacca, and Odilon Kossounou unavailable due to suspension and injury. Kossounou’s injury is particularly concerning, as reports indicate he could be out for up to four months.
Gian Piero Gasperini faces a decision regarding Mateo Retegui, who recently returned and has already scored 13 league goals this season, placing him at the top of the Capocannoniere rankings. The last Italian player to score more in a single season for Atalanta was Cristiano Doni back in the 2001-02 season. However, Gasperini might opt for Charles De Ketelaere and Ademola Lookman to start instead.
Atalanta (3-4-1-2): Carnesecchi; Scalvini, Hien, Djimsiti; Bellanova, De Roon, Ederson, Ruggeri; Pasalic; Lookman, De Ketelaere
Napoli (4-2-3-1): Meret; Di Lorenzo, Rrahmani, Jesus, Olivera; Anguissa, Lobotka; Politano, McTominay, Neres; Lukaku
