Napoli coach hails Osimhen ahead of Europa League Maradona derby

Published: February 13, 2022

Napoli were forced to a 1-1 draw by Inter Milan in their latest game in the Serie A ahead of their eagerly anticipated Europa League meeting with Barcelona, a game even UEFA has billed as the Maradona derby.

Lorenzo Insigne converted a penalty won by Victor Osimhen to give Napoli the lead in the seventh minute but Edin Dzeko buried the ball into the roof of the net to put Inter back on level terms in the 47th minute.

Napoli manager Luciano Spalletti praised his number nine after yesterday's clash at the Stadio Maradona but also highlighted that the club's record acquisition in history still has room for improvement.

In quotes relayed by Sky Sport Italia, Spalletti said : "A deadly striker, he has infinite potential.

"Sometimes he disconnects a little from the team because he goes to attack three or four opponents alone, or other times he cuts towards the flag. "

Osimhen previously faced Spanish opponents Real Sociedead, Granada and Valencia in European competition and Thursday's clash at the Camp Nou could be his first game against Barcelona.

The Nigeria international was Napoli's top scorer in the group stage of the Europa League with four goals in 167 minutes of action.

Igho Kingsley

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