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Salvatore Bagni: A Serie A Veteran Weighs In on the Title Race
The Italian Serie A title race is a nail-biter! Napoli and Inter Milan are neck and neck, leaving fans on the edge of their seats. Former player Salvatore Bagni, a legend who played for both clubs, shared his expert insights with Il Messaggero, offering a fascinating look at the contenders' strengths and weaknesses.
Inter Milan's Challenges
Bagni points out that Inter's packed schedule is taking its toll. While winning games builds confidence, the constant pressure drains energy. He highlights Inter's struggles in recent league matches, including losses to Parma and Bologna, as well as narrow wins. Injuries haven't helped, and backup strikers haven't always stepped up. Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram are carrying the team, but that can't last forever. Arnautovic's absence from the Bologna match further exposed the squad's vulnerabilities.
- Key Issue: Energy depletion from multiple competitions.
- Key Player: Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram are carrying a heavy load.
Napoli's Fight
Napoli, Bagni notes, is hoping for Inter to stumble. But neither team has truly capitalized on the other's mistakes. The sale of Kvaratskhelia has significantly impacted Napoli, along with injuries to key players like Neres and Buongiorno. Their squad depth is less than Inter's, making their current position even more impressive. A Scudetto win for Napoli would be a major achievement, Bagni believes. He hopes coach Antonio Conte, who he is convinced will remain with the club, will lead Napoli into the Champions League for many years.
- Key Loss: The departure of Kvaratskhelia.
- Key Factor: Squad depth is a concern.
Remaining Fixtures
Looking at the remaining matches, Bagni sees tough away games against Lecce and Parma as significant hurdles for Napoli. Both teams, he points out, are fighting for points and will pose a serious challenge. For Inter, he expects them to win their home games, but the matches against Roma and Lazio will be tough battles. The motivation levels of these opponents (Champions League or Europa League contention) will greatly influence the outcomes. The sheer number of matches Inter are playing will likely continue to make a difference.
- Napoli's Key Games: Away matches against Lecce and Parma.
- Inter's Key Games: Home matches against Roma and Lazio.
Champions League vs. Scudetto?
Bagni believes Inter has their sights set on the Champions League, but winning or losing that competition often comes down to tiny details. They can't afford to neglect the league. He highlights their previous Scudetto loss, noting the high cost of focusing solely on Europe. The physical and mental exhaustion resulting from Champions League participation could result in more slip-ups in the league.
Playoff Possibilities
Bagni acknowledges the possibility of a playoff, which would be hosted at San Siro, giving Inter a home-field advantage. However, he emphasizes that Napoli would still have to give it their all to win, highlighting the shift in probabilities after Inter's Bologna loss. What was once a 60/40 advantage for Inter is now viewed as a 50/50 toss-up.
Conclusion
Salvatore Bagni's analysis paints a picture of a very tight Serie A title race. Both Napoli and Inter face significant challenges. The remaining matches promise to be thrilling, with the outcome far from certain. The impact of squad depth, injury recovery, and the Champions League commitments will likely play a significant role in who ultimately lifts the Scudetto.
