Lucca and Lang: two unknown quantities in Conte’s Napoli | OneFootball

The two players have not yet fully integrated into the Salento coach's setup. The Dutchman due to tactical reasons, the Italian striker…

Lucca and Lang: two mysterious figures in Conte's Napoli

The start of the season for Antonio Conte's Napoli has already highlighted clear dynamics: the shift from a 4-3-3 to a 4-1-4-1, specifically designed to enhance the talent of Kevin De Bruyne, reshaping hierarchies and roles. In this context, Noa Lang is the one paying the bitter price.

Noa Lang: sacrificed by the system

Having arrived from PSV Eindhoven in the summer of 2025, the Dutchman (26 years old) has so far accumulated just 17 minutes in two appearances. A talented offensive winger, he finds himself penalized by the new tactical setup that has minimized the use of pure wingers. The only winger to be spared is Politano, a true "Conte-style" team player, indispensable for balance and discipline. For Lang, however, the field remains an elusive dream.

Lorenzo Lucca: investment on hold

Acquired from Udinese (loan with an obligation to buy), the Turin-born striker, class of 2000 – 201 cm – has accumulated 174 minutes in three matches, two of which as a starter. Yet, the feeling is that he has not yet gained Conte's trust. Since the arrival of the Danish striker, Lorenzo Lucca has seen his playing time drastically reduced. The emblematic episode came against City: with Højlund exhausted after a fierce pressing game, the coach preferred to bring on Neres rather than utilize Lucca's physique. A clear signal of his current role in the rotations.

Not rejections, but waiting

These are not definitive exclusions. The season is long, the schedule is packed, and Conte will need everyone. Lang and Lucca will, however, need to prove they can make an impact in the few minutes given, transforming from "mysterious figures" into real assets. The only real question mark remains financial: the total investment in Lucca – close to 40 million – could weigh on the young man and affect the evaluation of his performances.

by Davide Maria Pellegrino

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇮🇹 here.