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As the Giallorossi return from international duty they travel to the Stadio San Paolo to face Maurizio Sarri’s Napoli.
Luciano Spalletti has seen his squad win three of their last four matches, and a victory would see Roma leapfrog the Partenopei in the standings.
Although Arkadiusz Milik will be out for the next four-to-six months with an ACL tear, our columnist believes there are three other players that have aided Saturday’s opponents’ hot form…
Jose Callejon
The Spanish No. 7 is having the best start to his professional career, leading the Partenopei with five goals. Added by two assists and three shots per game, the speedy winger has been the most dangerous attacker in Sarri’s line-up.
What makes Callejon so dangerous is his sly positioning on the shoulder of the left defender, where he often ghosts to goal in just margins of space. Without Milik, the former Real Madrid player will be relied on more than ever to carry the attack.
Marek Hamsik
Relishing his new, deeper role in midfield, the Partenopei’s captain has been in sensational form. He has two goals and completed one assist.
Of 494 total passes, Hamik has a completion rate of 89% – of which 61% were forward passes. Further, the Slovakian captain is averaging 2.4 key passes per match, creating 17 chances in total.
If marked thoroughly and matched from a physical standpoint, Napoli’s link from midfield to attack will be confined, therefore limiting their chances on goal.
Kalidou Koulibaly
After a rumored club transfer record bid from Antonio Conte’s Chelsea this past transfer window, the Senegalese centre back decided to stay in Naples – a choice which instantly made him a centrepiece of this year’s side.
The 26-year-old has continued his strong form from last season, averaging over two-and-a-half tackles per match between Champions League and Serie A, and almost four clearances per match in Serie A alone.
The towering defender is most recognised for his pace and strength, allowing him to compete with most opponents and complicating success for even the most talented of attackers.
Further, his anticipation of the play is something to behold, as he often beats his opponent to their own first touch. His only shortcomings are his aggression and positioning – if Roma can string passing and enforce team play around Napoli’s defensive area, they should be able to surpass him.
Imperium Partners
Centurion Partners
