Napoli-Udinese, the probable formations

Likely lineups

In their last pre-World Cup match, Napoli will host Udinese at the Maradona. The partenopei, still unbeaten in the league and first in the standings with 38 points, will have to do without Kvaratskhelia, still struggling with back problems. In his place Spalletti is expected to play Elmas.

The Friulians are on the hunt for points: their last victory dates back to October 3 against Hellas Verona, then came 5 draws and 1 defeat. In the last round Sottil’s gang was stopped by a 1-1 draw with Spezia. Beto and his teammates were off to a rocket start, then a few injuries caused them to slip to eighth place in the standings behind Roma and ahead of Torino.

Luciano Spalletti has some lineup doubts: Elmas and Raspadori are playing for a shirt but the Macedonian is favored, same for Lozano-Politano, with the Mexican in slight advantage. In defense Juan Jesus and Olivera could take the place of Ostigard and Mario Rui.

Andrea Sottil has little to choose from given the numerous injuries: the only ballot is between Success and Beto, with the Portuguese favored over the Nigerian.

Likely lineups.

NAPOLI (4-3-3): Meret; Di Lorenzo, Kim Min-jae, Juan Jesus, Olivera; Anguissa, Lobotka, Zielinski; Lozano, Osimhen, Elmas. All: Spalletti

UDINESE (3-5-2): Silvestri; Perez, Bijol, Nuytinck; Ehizibue, Lovric, Walace, Pereyra, Ebosse; Beto, Deulofeu. All: Sottil