Napoli has clinched its fourth Serie A title, marking the club’s second league championship in three seasons, achieved in coach Antonio Conte’s inaugural season at the helm. AFP Sport has identified the players who made significant contributions to Napoli’s success.
Romelu Lukaku Belgian forward Romelu Lukaku, 32, is credited with revolutionizing his game in his second tenure under Conte, a relationship he shares a “special” bond with. Lukaku, who was an “all-action centre-forward” contributing significantly to Inter Milan’s 2021 Serie A title alongside Lautaro Martinez, has this season adopted a more back-to-goal attacking role. His improved distribution has been a notable development in his career. Lukaku has provided 10 league assists and scored 14 goals, finding stability after his loan spells following a transfer from Chelsea. His performance has reportedly mitigated the impact of losing star striker Victor Osimhen, who was loaned to Galatasaray after a “protracted and at times comical transfer saga.”
Scott McTominay Scott McTominay, arriving from Manchester United on transfer deadline day, has been a revelation in Napoli’s title-winning campaign, quickly adapting to his new club and country. The Scotland midfielder, 28, has also embraced Neapolitan life, commending the local produce in a recent interview with The Athletic. “I eat them as a snack,” he stated, referring to tomatoes. “I eat all the vegetables, all of the fruits. It is all so fresh. It’s incredible.” His 12 Serie A goals represent a career-best league tally, and his “bustling play” has been a key addition to the squad, earning him the moniker “McFratm” or “McBro” among fans. McTominay is anticipated to be a central figure in Napoli’s plans for defending the title and navigating the expanded Champions League schedule.
Giacomo Raspadori Despite being a frequent bench player for much of the season, Italy forward Giacomo Raspadori proved valuable during the Scudetto run-in, contributing crucial goals and filling gaps in the attack. Raspadori has started only 10 matches this season but found more playing time following the January transfer of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to Paris Saint-Germain. Eight of his Serie A starts have occurred since mid-February, during which he has scored five goals and provided one assist alongside Lukaku.
Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa Cameroon midfielder Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa is highlighted as an embodiment of Napoli’s resurgence. Alongside McTominay and Stanislav Lobotka, he has been instrumental in Conte’s team securing the Scudetto after a “historically dire title defence” last season. The 29-year-old has regained form, overcoming his previous slump, and has achieved a career-best goal tally for a single season, scoring six times, including in a key January victory over Juventus, and providing four assists. Anguissa has maintained consistent presence throughout the season as Napoli claimed its fourth Italian championship.
