Napoli director Cristiano Giuntoli explains some of the decisions against Ajax in the Champions League, which were made to neutralise some of the Dutch side’s greatest strengths.
It kicks off at the Amsterdam Arena at 20.00 UK time (19.00 GMT).
The Partenopei have surpassed all expectations so far this season, topping the Serie A table and their Champions League group.
They visit Amsterdam this evening and Giovanni Simeone had been expected to start in the absence of injured Victor Osimhen, but Giacomo Raspadori got the nod instead.
“I think the coach wants to continue the approach seen in the last game, dominating possession with a striker who can tie the forward line to the midfield,” director of sport Giuntoli told Sky Sport Italia.
“Then in the final 30-40 minutes, we can use a more physical, pacey striker like Simeone. Mathias Olivera is there rather than Mario Rui because Dusan Tadic is a very physical forward down that flank and the coach wanted someone with different characteristics to Mario Rui.”
Napoli had not been expected to do this well in the Champions League, but the 4-1 victory over Liverpool seemed to put their name on the map.
“We try to take it one game at a time, we are curious to have our say and don’t know how others see us, but we hope it is a positive image.”
Kvicha Kvaratskhelia has been a revelation since his arrival from Georgia over the summer, scoring goals, providing assists and going viral with his nutmegs.
“We had been tracking him for some time, so did well and were fortunate to make our move early. Everyone talks about Kvaratskhelia, but other new players are doing well too. We’ve got to keep our feet on the ground, keep improving and stay calm.”