Team News and Key Players
In an exciting showdown, Empoli vs Napoli is set to take place at the Castellani Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 11:30 AM UK time (10:30 AM GMT). Napoli, led by stars like Romelu Lukaku and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, will be looking to maintain their position at the top of the Serie A standings despite recent challenges.
Napoli’s recent performance has been strong, with five wins in their last six matches. However, they face significant changes due to injuries. Stanislav Lobotka, a key midfielder, is out with a thigh injury sustained during international play. Additionally, goalkeeper Alex Meret is still unavailable, pushing Billy Gilmour into the starting lineup for his first appearance alongside fellow Scot Scott McTominay in midfield. This new pairing aims to support the attacking prowess of Lukaku, Kvaratskhelia, and Matteo Politano.
This match marks a pivotal moment for Napoli, as it will be the first time since April 2022 that they compete without Lobotka. Elia Caprile will be up against his former club, while Leonardo Spinazzola replaces the injured Mathias Oliveira.
Empoli’s Recent Form and Injury Concerns
Empoli enters this Empoli vs Napoli clash with two wins and four draws but recently suffered their first defeat of the season, losing 2-1 to Lazio. The team has struggled to find the back of the net, having drawn their last three home matches against Monza, Juventus, and Fiorentina, all finishing 0-0. With injuries to key players like Sabba Sazonov, Samuel Perisan, Luca Belardinelli, Youssef Maleh, Simon Zurkowski, and Tyronne Ebuehi, the squad’s depth is being tested. On a positive note, Mattia Viti has recovered from a back injury and will be available for selection.
As both teams gear up for the Napoli vs Empoli encounter, the spotlight will be on how Napoli’s new midfield combination can cope with Empoli’s defensive setup. Fans are eagerly awaiting an entertaining match that could have significant implications for both teams.
Expected Lineups for the Match
The anticipated lineups for the Empoli F.C. vs SSC Napoli match are as follows:
Empoli:
Baskes; Gollizze, Ismagili, Viti; Gyasi, Anjorin, Grassi, Pezzella; Fazzini, Esposito; Colombo.
Napoli:
Caprile; Di Lorenzo, Rahmani, Buongiorno, Spinazzola; Anguissa, Gilmour, McTominay; Politano, Lukaku, Kvaratskhelia.
As kickoff approaches, both teams are looking to secure vital points in the standings. The Empoli vs Napoli match promises to be a thrilling encounter, showcasing the best of Italian football. Fans are hopeful for an action-packed game filled with exciting moments and potential highlights.
