Inter-Napoli, Chivu has chosen eight players: three positions still undecided

Cristian Chivu already has clear ideas for eight out of eleven positions in the lineup that will face Napoli on Saturday. Three spots are still up for grabs to complete the starting team.

In goal, Martinez will be confirmed. The defense will feature Bisseck on the right center and Bastoni on the left center, while the central position is a toss-up between Akanji and Stones. In midfield, four spots are already assigned: Barella and Calhanoglu will play in the middle, with Diouf on the right and Dimarco on the left. The only competition in midfield is between Jones and Zielinski.

In attack, Lautaro Martinez is certain of a spot, while for the other position Pio Esposito remains ahead of Thuram, who might be rested for the match against Real Madrid.

Updates from Appiano Gentile also concern Djed Spence, who has yet to make his debut in the black and blue. The winger will miss both the match against Napoli and the one against Real Madrid. Next week he could rejoin the group and aim for a call-up against Udinese, which would be his first call-up. The conditional remains necessary: first, he needs to return to training with his teammates.