Napoli fans are curious to finally see Brazilian defender Natan in action against Bologna, but director Mauro Meluso warns he should ‘not be judged’ too early.
It kicks off at the Stadio Dall’Ara at 17.00 UK time (16.00 GMT).
The Partenopei picked up just one point from their last two Serie A fixtures, losing to Lazio and drawing with newly-promoted Genoa.
They did get back on track midweek with a 2-1 Champions League victory away to SC Braga, although that too was sealed only thanks to a late own goal.
There are changes today in Bologna, as Giacomo Raspadori comes in and Natan receives his Serie A debut, because Juan Jesus and Amir Rrahmani are both injured.
“Natan comes from a different continent, we had many of these situations in Serie A and know players need time to adapt,” director of sport Meluso told DAZN.
“He has actually been quicker than expected, as he comes from a very different style of football, but has the characteristics of a European defender.”
Coach Rudi Garcia was criticised for not giving Natan a chance earlier, which raised suspicions that the man signed to replace fan favourite Kim Min-jae is nowhere near the same level as the South Korea international.
“He must not be judged negatively or positively on what he does today. If he is at Napoli, it is because we shared this decision and considered it right to bring him here,” added Meluso.
It was a very long summer on the transfer market once Kim was sold to Bayern Munich, with several options considered at far higher prices, so Natan was something of a surprising pick from RB Bragantino for €10m.
So far, the 22-year-old has been given just a one-minute substitute appearance in the Champions League against SC Braga midweek.