Napoli target Supercoppa in Riyadh, Conte hopes for Lukaku return | OneFootball

The time to stop and analyze is minimized. Napoli quickly moves past the disappointment in Udine and prepares to change scenario, rhythm, and perspective: the Italian Super Cup represents the ideal opportunity to react, regain confidence, and pursue the first trophy of the season.

Napoli, mission Super Cup in Riyadh: turn the page after Udine. Conte hopes for Lukaku's return

For Antonio Conte, the trip to Saudi Arabia is much more than a prestigious appointment: it's a test of maturity after recent setbacks against Benfica and Udinese.

Heading to Riyadh: Napoli seeks immediate answers

The blue expedition will officially begin on Tuesday afternoon, when the charter provided by the Football League will take off from Naples to Riyadh. On board will be the team, technical staff, and full management, including president Aurelio De Laurentiis.

The first crucial appointment is set for Thursday at 8:00 PM, when Napoli will face Milan in the Super Cup semifinal at the Al-Awwal Park Stadium, the same venue that hosted the final lost against Inter two years ago. A coincidence that adds extra motivation to an already meaningful match.

Conte demands a reaction: “We need to turn anger into energy”

The message from the technical staff is clear: the Super Cup is not a mere interlude, but a fundamental stage of the season. Conte demands an immediate response, especially in terms of attitude and intensity, aspects that were lacking in recent outings.

The goal is to convert accumulated frustration into determination, using the international context to regroup and regain confidence.

Lukaku, positive signs: possible return among the called-up

The most awaited news concerns the offensive department. Romelu Lukaku is close to returning and might be included in the list of those called up for Riyadh. The final decision will be made after today's training, but the atmosphere is cautiously optimistic.

For the Belgian striker, it would be the first call-up after the serious injury sustained in mid-August. The medical staff advises caution: starting from the first minute seems unlikely, as does a significant amount of playing time. However, just having Lukaku on the bench or with the group would be a strong signal for the locker room and the entire environment.

Conte knows that Big Rom's recovery must be managed carefully, but he is also aware of the mental impact his return can have on the team.

Saudi program and injury situation

Fieldwork will intensify on Wednesday, with the final training session scheduled at the Al Riad Club, followed by Conte's press conference set for 2:00 PM, streamed live.

Encouraging signs are coming from the infirmary: Lobotka and Gutierrez are fully recovered and already played in Udine, while Juan Jesus is back at the coach's disposal. However, Gilmour, Anguissa, and De Bruyne remain unavailable, along with Alex Meret, who is dealing with a metatarsal fracture. The blue goalkeeper is expected to be out for at least another two weeks before returning to the group.

Super Cup as a seasonal turning point

For Napoli, the Super Cup is not just a competition to honor, but a real test of strength. Conte seeks immediate answers, identity, and continuity. The semifinal against Milan can become the turning point to definitively leave Udine and Lisbon behind.

In Riyadh, the blues are not just seeking a trophy: they are seeking confirmation. And perhaps, the first smile of the season.

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