Napoli Plotting Major Tactical Switch for Lazio Clash as Antonio Conte Picks Neres’ Replacement | OneFootball

Napoli coach Antonio Conte is reportedly considering an interesting tactical tweak for this Saturday’s top Serie A clash against Lazio.

The Background

While the Biancocelseti are still sweating over the condition of Boulaye Dia who remains doubtful for the contest, the Partenopei have certainly lost David Neres to a thigh injury. The Brazilian winger could be facing a month on the sidelines, leaving Conte with limited options on the flanks, especially following Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s transfer to Paris Saint-Germain.

Giacomo Raspadori to Replace David Neres

According to Il Corriere dello Sport (via TuttoNapoli), Giacomo Raspadori is expected to get the nod in Neres’ absence. The Italy international last started a Serie A contest in August, but Conte will reportedly pick him over Cyril Ngonge and new signing Noah Okafor.

Antonio Conte Facing Tactical Dilemma

Nevertheless, it remains to be seen if Raspadori will play as a left winger alongside Romelu Lukaku and Matteo Politano in Napoli’s tried-and-tested 4-3-3 system, or if he’ll act as a second striker in a 3-5-2 formation.

Three-Man Backline Restored?

As the Roman newspaper explains, Conte is considering a return to his trademark three-man backline, especially with Alessandro Buongiorno making his return from injury. The Italian defender could slot in between Amir Rrahmani and Juan Jesus who deputized admirably for the former Torino man in the previous months.

The source claims the former Juventus and Inter Milan manager could be tempted to adopt this more defensive approach to repel Lazio’s ultra-attacking approach.