Napoli, Conte brings back the 4-3-3 and starts Højlund to secure top spot | OneFootball

After the hard blow of Kevin De Bruyne's injury, Napoli has not lost its way. Antonio Conte has already charted a new course ahead of the match against Como, valid for the next Serie A round. The clear objective: to defend the top spot in the standings and continue to show signs of solidity.

Napoli, Conte revives the 4-3-3 and starts Højlund from the first minute to secure the lead

According to reports from Castel Volturno, the Salento coach is preparing a return to the 4-3-3, the formation that allowed him to win the championship last season. This choice stems from the need to regain balance and compactness in the midfield after the absence of the Belgian star.

Højlund as a starter: Conte relies on Danish power

The recovery of Rasmus Højlund is the most important news for Conte. The Danish striker, finally ready to start from the beginning, will lead the offensive trio alongside Matteo Politano and David Neres, the latter favored over Noa Lang, who is dealing with a slight bruise sustained against Lecce.

The return of the former Manchester United forward allows Conte to revert to a more physical and vertical attack, capable of exploiting depth and providing precise references to teammates.

Three-man midfield: Gilmour confirmed, McTominay more offensive

In the midfield, Napoli is expected to present a solid trio: Billy Gilmour, confirmed for balance and dynamism; Zambo Anguissa, essential in ball recovery and transitions; and Scott McTominay, who with De Bruyne's absence will have the freedom to advance, seeking runs and shots.

Stanislav Lobotka's condition remains to be assessed as he completes his recovery process: the Slovakian playmaker could return to the squad, but is unlikely to start from the first minute.

Secure defense: Rrahmani recovers, but Buongiorno and Juan Jesus remain favored

In defense, Conte can smile at the return of Amir Rrahmani, but the coach seems inclined not to change the defensive setup that has ensured stability in recent games. Therefore, space for the duo Alessandro Buongiorno – Juan Jesus, with Giovanni Di Lorenzo and Leonardo Spinazzola on the flanks.

An experienced defensive line, accustomed to managing pressure phases and ready to support a more balanced but no less aggressive Napoli.

Objective Como: confirm leadership and overcome De Bruyne's absence

Conte's Napoli, therefore, does not change its soul but adapts to circumstances. De Bruyne's absence is significant, but the coach has chosen the path of pragmatism, returning to what worked best: the triumphant 4-3-3.

With Højlund leading the attack and the group once again complete, the Neapolitans are preparing for a tricky yet crucial away match. The top spot in the standings also passes through Como — and Conte, as always, wants to win with grit, organization, and mentality.

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