Lazio Coach Marco Baroni Facing Selection Dilemma at Full-Back Ahead of Napoli Clash | OneFootball

Lazio manager Marco Baroni will have to choose between Luca Pellegrini and the returning Nuno Tavares for the Serie A showdown against Napoli.

The Background

The Biancocelesti will be looking to complete the double over their southern foes after beating them on Thursday in the Coppa Italia Round of 16. But while both teams adopted second-string lineups in midweek, Baroni and Antonio Conte will unleash their Best XI on Sunday. In Napoli’s case, the ideal lineup is already well-illustrated. On the other hand, Lazio still have some doubts, especially with some of their players returning from injuries.

Luca Pellegrini & Nuno Tavares Vying for Starting Spot

According to La Lazio Siamo Noi, Pellegrini and Tavares are both available for selection, as the Italian has overcome a physical problem he picked up last weekend, while the Portuguese has recovered from a muscular problem sustained while on international which kept him out of action for several weeks.

Pellegrini the Favorite

While both players are hoping to get the nod, the source believes Pellegrini could be the slight favorite, as Tavares has only just returned from a long layoff, so he could be saved for the Europa League showdown against Ajax. On the other hand, Manuel Lazzari is expected to start at right-back once again, while Alessio Romagnoli and Mario Gila reclaim their spots at the back.

Mandatory Choices in Midfield

In the middle of the park, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru will fill in for the suspended Nicolo Rovella and the injured Matias Vecino, starting alongside Matteo Guendouzi. On the wings, Gustav Isaksen and Mattia Zaccagni are the favorites to start, while Boulaye Dia could make an immediate return to the starting after missing out on the last two contests due to a slight ankle knock.

Tijjani Noslin Dropped

Finally, Tijjani Noslin will be dropped to the bench despite his splendid hat-trick in the Coppa Italia. The Dutchman should make way for Taty Castellanos who remains the undisputed first choice upfront.

Lazio Probable XI (4-2-3-1): Provedel; Lazzari, Gila, Romagnoli, Pellegrini; Guendouzi, Dele-Bashiru; Isaksen, Dia, Zaccagni; Castellanos