As Napoli prepare for their upcoming match against Udinese, the team received a boost with the potential return of key defender Alessandro Buongiorno. After a lengthy absence, Buongiorno is back in contention, though he’s likely to start on the bench. The central defensive pairing of Juan Jesus and Amir Rrahmani is expected to remain intact for the starting lineup.
However, Antonio Conte’s side still faces one notable absence. Left-back Mathias Olivera continues his recovery from a calf injury and won’t be available until next month.
In the attacking department, Romelu Lukaku leads the line with an impressive record against their opponents, having netted six times in eight Serie A encounters. New loan acquisition Noah Okafor is anticipated to be among the substitutes.
The opposition’s focal point in attack is Lorenzo Lucca, who has been in prolific form since last season. With 17 goals to his name, including eight headers, Lucca poses a significant aerial threat. He’s set to lead the frontline, with Alexis Sanchez and Florian Thauvin vying for the supporting role.
There’s positive news for the visitors as forward Keinan Davis and wing-back Kingsley Ehizibue return to full training. Additionally, Swedish midfielder Jesper Karlstrom is available again after serving a suspension. However, the team will still be without Isaak Toure, Lautaro Giannetti, and their first-choice goalkeeper Maduka Okoye due to ongoing fitness issues.
Napoli (4-3-3): Meret; Di Lorenzo, Rrahmani, Jesus, Spinazzola; Anguissa, Lobotka, McTominay; Politano, Lukaku, Neres
Udinese (3-5-2): Sava; Kristensen, Bijol, Solet; Ehizibue, Lovric, Karlstrom, Payero, Kamara; Thauvin, Lucca
