During a radio program, football analyst Luca Cerchione shared his insights on Napoli`s current situation and potential future moves.
When asked about Napoli`s most pressing needs for squad improvement this summer, Cerchione suggested that the starting eleven is already quite strong. He even mentioned Romelu Lukaku, suggesting he could be a valuable backup striker, particularly if his physical condition is managed effectively. Cerchione believes Lukaku can perform very well when not under excessive physical strain. However, he pointed out the left-back and central defense as areas needing reinforcement. He expressed reservations about Spinazzola defensively and Olivera`s consistency in both attacking and defensive phases. He acknowledged the difficulty in finding quality left-footed left-backs but emphasized this position as a potential weakness for Napoli. Additionally, he recommended considering a replacement for Rrahmani due to his age, highlighting his current high market value after a strong season, making it an opportune time for a significant sale. Cerchione advocated for targeted improvements rather than a complete squad overhaul.
Regarding Lukaku`s potential role next season, considering Napoli`s expected schedule of around 50 games, Cerchione envisions him as a starter in approximately twenty matches and a substitute in the remainder. This approach, he believes, would help maintain Lukaku`s fitness. He praised Lukaku`s footballing intelligence, especially evident in his recent performances, describing him as more than just a typical center-forward. Cerchione highlighted Lukaku`s playmaking ability and tactical awareness, sharing a sentiment with former Napoli player Careca, who also views Lukaku as a complete attacker capable of contributing significantly to Napoli when managed well.
Shifting the focus to coach Antonio Conte, Cerchione addressed the ongoing speculation about his future, noting Conte`s deliberate ambiguity in his responses. Cerchione believes there are two primary reasons why Conte might consider leaving Napoli. Firstly, if Napoli were to win the Scudetto immediately, it could create excessively high expectations. Secondly, Conte might depart if the club doesn`t meet his demands in the transfer market. Cerchione interprets Conte`s cautious statements as signals to the club, urging them to take note of his requirements. He expressed disappointment with sporting director Manna`s passive responses regarding Conte`s future, suggesting a more assertive stance would be appropriate, given Conte`s contract and club option for an additional year. Manna`s evasiveness, according to Cerchione, suggests Napoli`s genuine concern about Conte potentially leaving, a move Conte has demonstrated he is capable of in his career.
Finally, Cerchione discussed the situation with goalkeeper Alex Meret, admitting he is not entirely convinced by Meret`s abilities, citing limitations in aerial play, command of the penalty area, and communication with teammates. Despite these criticisms, Cerchione acknowledged the difficulty of finding a superior replacement. He questioned Napoli`s approach of offering Meret only annual contract renewals, suggesting it reflects a lack of full confidence in the player. Cerchione argued that a longer-term contract would demonstrate greater faith in Meret and provide more security for both parties.