Napoli boss Walter Mazzarri reveals Victor Osimhen ‘can’t play for 90 minutes’ against Inter but is confident the Nigerian striker will ‘play a great game.’
Osimhen returns to Napoli’s starting XI after more than a month in a home Serie A game against Inter on Sunday. He had suffered a muscle injury during the October break and made his return to the pitch last week, coming on as a substitute in a 2-1 win over Atalanta. It was Mazzarri’s second debut on the Partenopei’s bench.
Osimhen starts against Inter, but Mazzarri reveals his striker will be subbed off at some point during the game as he is still not fully fit.
“He is aware he can’t play for 90 minutes, so we must manage him during the match,” Mazzarri told DAZN.
“He is an added value and I hope he will show it today. As for his contract, I prefer not to talk about it. Everyone loves him here and I know he is happy. I think he can play a great game and improve his shape in the future.”
Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis claimed earlier this week that Osimhen had agreed to sign a contract extension with the Partenopei.
Mazzarri has already taken charge of two Napoli games since his return two weeks ago, but this will be his first home game in his second spell.
“It’s too good, I didn’t think I could feel this after a 23-year-long career,” he admitted.
“I felt a strong emotion and I felt I was coming back home. Now I need to be focused on my team.”
Brazilian defender Natan starts as a left-back as both Mario Rui and Olivera are injured.
“The debut was good, but we lost some players. I am confident the lad has important qualities, so he can play a good game in that role,” concluded Mazzarri.
Napoli-Inter kicks off at 19:45 GMT. You can follow live updates from the Stadio Maradona on the Football Italia LIVEBLOG.