Napoli, Conte passes squad depth test with win over Pisa | OneFootball

The Azzurri coach gets important answers from the second-string players after the Champions League debut. Managing energy will be decisive in the race for the top.

Napoli, Conte passes the first test of the “deep squad”: successful rotation against Pisa

The Champions League has always represented a double challenge for big clubs: international prestige on one hand, the risk of energy drop and lost points on the other. From the summer training camp, Antonio Conte had emphasized the need to strengthen the squad with quality additions, pointing out how the frequency of fixtures requires fresh and reliable resources.

The double commitment between the European debut in Manchester and the home match against Pisa was the first real test. On paper, it seemed like an easy match, but in reality, it turned into a tough obstacle due to the opponents’ organization and the tired legs of the Italian champions.

Decisive rotation at the Maradona

Napoli struggled, but managed to bring home a valuable 3-2 win, thanks also to the contribution of the so-called “second-string” players.

Spinazzola, coming off a performance of great sacrifice against City, was among the best on the pitch.

Gilmour found the back of the net, confirming his growth.

Lucca, who had struggled in the early matches, scored the 3-1 goal, unleashing a group celebration that speaks to the positive atmosphere in the locker room.

De Bruyne once again proved to be a technical and charismatic leader, impactful with the ball and also crucial in motivating his teammates.

Conte thus received an important confirmation: his Napoli can rely not only on the starting eleven, but also on those coming off the bench.

Takeaways for Conte

The coach from Salento comes out of this victory strengthened, but he is aware of the challenges that await the team. Managing energy after European nights will be crucial: Napoli, once again a key player in both the league and the Champions League, will have to maintain a balance between athletic sharpness and targeted rotations.

The most encouraging aspect to emerge from the win over Pisa is the unity of the group, demonstrated by the intensity with which the whole team celebrated after Lucca’s goal. A sign that Conte will want to turn into fuel for the challenges ahead.

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