The Forza Napoli Podcast

Daniel Russo joins Joe Fischetti to discuss the very dramatic month of April for Napoli and Serie A, on and off the pitch, including: Part 1 - Conte’s struggles getting the Fab Four of Lobotka, Anguissa, McTominay and De Bruyne to all play well at the same time; Alisson needs to start; Which of the Fab Four is mostly likely to leave Napoli in the summer; Who was Napoli’s biggest injury loss of the season? And the importance of finishing in 2nd place (~3:01) Part 2 - Antonio Conte’s future at Napoli following Italy’s third consecutive failure to qualify for the World Cup; Some early concerns with the upcoming summer transfer market; and the latest Serie A scandals (~29:20) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tri-State Napoli Club VP, Peter Scala, joins Joe Fischetti to review Napoli’s recent run of form and whether the Partenopei are back in the running for the Scudetto, including: Part 1 - Consecutive victories against Hellas Verona, Torino, Lecce and Cagliari; With Inter dropping points in three consecutive matches, Napoli reduce the gap to seven points; With Inter hosting Roma and Napoli hosting Milan, the Azzurri’s fate could be decided in the next round; and Interisti becoming insecure after dropping points, while Lautaro watches from the sidelines (~2:06) Part 2 - The latest on the Romelu Lukaku drama in Belgium and a quick look ahead to Napoli’s crucial MD31 game against Milan (~22:24) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Host of Napoli Nation TV, Daniel Bowen, joins Joe Fischetti to discuss the latest controversial decisions against Napoli and a certain ex-Napoli player that has been ruffling some feathers, including: Part 1 - Penalty decision in favour of Napoli overturned; Napoli’s second goal disallowed for an alleged foul by Hojlund and Hien; How these decisions could hinder Napoli from qualifying for the Champions League; Giovanni Manna attends the post-match press conference on behalf of Antonio Conte and calls out the officials; potential rule changes, including VAR reviews of second yellow and coaches challenges; Is Inter the new Juve?; and some positives heading into the home stretch of the season (~2:11) Part 2 - Victor Osimhen’s interview pre- and post-Juventus in the Champions League and the potential for the Nigerian to reunite with Luciano Spalletti at Juventus (~50:43) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Vincenzo Bertillo joins Joe Fischetti to review Napoli’s ongoing roller-coaster ride of a season, including: Napoli’s exit from the Champions League after a draw to Copenhagen and a defeat to Chelsea and, counterintuitively, why that might have been the best case for Napoli (~2:26) Di Lorenzo joins the infirmary with what initially appeared to be a career-ending injury. Fortunately, players are returning to the squad (~10:13) Though devastating, the injury crisis has given Napoli “starlet” Antonio Vergara the opportunity to shine the former Primavera player has seized the opportunity (~32:14) Napoli’s January transfer market - Lang, Lucca, Marianucci and Ambrosino loaned out; Giovane, Alisson and young Milton Pereyra recruited (~51:48) With the Champions League exit, Supercoppa secured and an unprecedented number of injuries, what does a success season look like for Conte’s Napoli (~1:03:53) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Host of the Napoli Rant, Raffa Rispo, joins Joe Fischetti to review the controversial decisions in Napoli’s recent matches and look ahead to the second half of the season, including: Scott McTominay’s fourth goal in three matches disallowed by the semi-automated offside technology because Pasquale Mazzocchi’s should blade was offside (~4:22) Possible handball by Alessandro Circatti in the Parma area, an outstanding performance from young Parma goalkeeper Filippo Rinaldi and a great show of character despite the poor results (~21:37) Inter’s penalty kick, inconsistent officiating and Antonio Conte’s reaction (~29:42) Rasmus Højlund’s phantom handball against Hellas Verona (~43:11) Scott McTominay back to his scoring ways, showing that he’s at least as good, if not better, than he was last season (~52:42) A quick look ahead to the second half of the season and whether Napoli can still win the Scudetto (against all odds and against the officials)(~1:12:34) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this mini-pod, Joe Fischetti reviews Napoli’s controversial, midweek draw against Hellas Verona, including: Penalty kick awarded to Verona when Buongiorno appeared to have been followed Napoli rattled after conceding the opening goal, with many players at fault Napoli’s equalizer chalked off for a “handball” by Højlund Elmas choked out How Conte can use this result to motivate is team ahead of the big showdown against Inter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ashley Pearce joins Joe Fischetti to review Napoli’s first victory over Lazio in six matches  - a key away victory for Napoli to stay within touching distance of league leaders Inter, including: Part 1 - a tactical battle at the start: compact Lazio versus Neres between the lines; Politano and Neres owning Pellegrini on the right wing; Neres’ ankle injury; Lobotka key to Napoli playing through the press; a fourth consecutive clean sheet; and whether Noslin deserved a second yellow (~1:14) Part 2 - Spinazzola scored against his former club; Rrahmani scores from a controversial free kick; Napoli could have scored more, especially Elmas; and some transfer talk, including a potential departure of Noa Lang (~28:52) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Evan and Olivia join Joe Fischetti to discuss Napoli’s recent run of form, look back on a very successful 2025 and explain why Napoli must have a “zero balance” January transfer market, including: Part 1 - Napoli’s return to form since switching to a 3-4-2-1, including: improved production from Napoli forwards; the Neres-Højlund connection; who should start at striker when Lukaku returns; Di Lorenzo at centre back; Juan Jesus displacing Buongiorno; and more (~1:20) Part 2 - A look back at 2025, including best player, most improved player, best signing of 2025, and the obvious favourite moment of 2025; and a detailed explanation of why Napoli must maintain a “zero balance” in the January transfer market.  In particular, Napoli have signed a lot of players in the last two seasons, front-loaded amortization and a record-high wage bill (~20:38) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gateano Sollazzo and Daniel Russo join Joe Fischetti to discuss Napoli’s 2-1 victory over Juventus, following wins against Atalanta,Qarabag, Roma and Calgiari, including: Part 1 How the additions of David Neres and Noa Lang have injected much needed pace and creativity into the Partenopei’s against, allowing Rasmus Højlund to get back onto the score sheet How the 3-4-3 has improved the Napoli defence, giving more coverage to the wing backs and allowing the centre back to be more aggressive, sometimes even joining the attack Suffocating opposition attacking with an intense high press, then dropping into a very organized and structured defence after taking the lead Part 2 An important new role for Eljif Elmas, who did a fantastic job deputizing for Stanislav Lobotka and Billy Gilmour in the number 6 position Other standout performances, including Mathias Olivera and Scott McTominay, who continues to be a critical part of the team, even when he’s not scoring goals Spalletti’s uninspiring return to Napoli - perhaps he’s the latest double agent after Cristiano Giuntoli Quick look ahead to the Benfica match Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alesandro joins Joe Fischetti to discuss Napoli’s very important response to the recent controversy with an impressive 3-1 victory over Atalanta, including: A successful switch to the 3-4- formation Neres and Lang combine to score three goals after scoring no goals through the first 11 matches of the season Sam Beukema returns to the starting XI and outshines his centre back teammates The importance of Lukaku’s presence, in or out of the lineup Di Lorenzo’s best match of the season Some negatives, including Atalanta’s dominant second half, Hojlund’s struggles in attack and Vanja’s poor long balls A quick look ahead to the next two matches and whether Conte rolls with Neres and Lang against Qarabag or saves them for Roma Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gianluca Spinello joins Joe Fischetti to discuss Napoli’s sudden collapse after a fifth defeat of the season and three consecutive matches without a goal, including: Napoli’s recent record and inability to score, which aligns with the injury to Kevin De Bruyne Conte sees issues with mentality, heart and desire, but is the real issue the phyical condition of the players, and are the injuries a result of Conte’s intese training? Not enough productivity from Napoli’s wingers - Politano overplayed and Neres and Lang not played enough Stanislav Lobotka’s horribly timed podcast and not-so-funny (but kinda funny) comments about Conte’s training regiment. Don’t look now, but Napoli have a brutal eight-game stretch over a four-week period, including Atalanta and the new coach bump and Spalletti at Juve. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Vincenzo Bertillo joins Joe Fischetti to review Napoli’s back-to-back victories against Inter and Lecce, including: Antonio Conte outcoaching Christian Chivu by playing David Neres as a false 9, starting Juan Jesus on the opposite side, rattling Inter’s players and continuing to attack with a lead Was Napoli fortunate to be awarded a penalty kick? Kevin De Bruyne enters the infirmary and what that means for Napoli. Is that a blessing in disguise for Scott McTominay in the 4-3-3? Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa keeping collecting player of the match awards Billy Gilmour stepping up in the absence of Stanislav Lobotka Vanja Milinkovic-Savis’s big penalty save against Lecce as Napoli keep their first clean sheet in 10 matches The benefits of technology - referee cam and VAR The pressures of playing for a Scudetto-winning side continue to weigh heavily on Lorenzo Lucca. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tri-State Napoli Club Vice President Peter Scala joins Joe Fischetti to review Napoli’s 1-0 defeat to Torino, including: Surprise injuries to Rasmus Højlund and Scott McTominay exasperates the injury crisis and their absences were noticeable  Yet another disappointing performance from Lorenzo Lucca, who was once again throwing into the starting lineup Despite a below-standard performance from Napoli, a defeat was a harsh result. That said, Napoli lacked grinta and failed to take their chances Has Giovanni Di Lorenzo become more of a liability than a weapon? A CBS pundit takes joy in seeing Napoli’s equalizer overturned by VAR Giovanni Simeone’s match winner followed by an apologetic non-celebration, making him even more likeable for Napoli supporters Positive takeaways, including Leonardo Spinazzola’s creativity, Noa Lang’s longest and best performance and Alessandro Buongiorno’s return to the lineup Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Frank Pilla joins Joe Fischetti to review Napoli’s first ever victory in the new Champions League format - 2-1 win over Sporting Lisbon, including: Kevin De Bruyne putting an end to all the drama with two brilliant assists Rasmus Højlund solidifying his place as the starting striker in the absence of Romelu Lukaku Leonardo Spinazzola becoming more and more important for Napoli, covering for the suspended Giovanni Di Lorenzo at right back An abundance of soft fouls called against Napoli by match official Danny Makkelie, including the penalty kick Some positive indications, including: a more direct, efficient and clinical attack; positive contributions from bench players like Neres, Lang and Gilmour; and a new and improved mentality. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chris Kaiser joins Joe Fischetti to review Napoli’s 2-1 defeat to Milan shortly after the final whistle, including: A difficult debut for Luca Marianucci and whether Sam Beukema should have started instead An unimpressive defensive performance in the first half, all around Milan’s red card and some surprising substitutions from Antonio Conte The noticeable absence of Leonardo Spinazzola, particularly in attack With McTominay seemingly less effective, is the 4-1-4-1 formation still the best approach for Napoli While Napoli were not great, they were still good and the result was certainly not devastating Hat’s off to Christian Pulisic, Luka Modric and Adrien Rabiot Quick chat about the new Scudetto documentary Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gianluca Spinelli joins Joe Fischetti to review Napoli’s 2-0 defeat to Manchester City in the Partenopei’s return to the Champions League and Kevin De Bruyne’s return to Manchester, including: Di Lorenzo’s red card - Did Haaland foul Beukema?; Di Lorenzo’s mistakes; and was De Bruyne the right player to remove? First 20 minutes - a tactical battle between two of football’s greatest minds Vanja-Milinkovic Savic shining in a start over a healthy Alex Meret Did Napoli walk away stronger from this match than they were before it? A quick look ahead to Pisa Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe Fischetti reviews the performances of Napoli’s players during the September international break, including: Amir Rrahmani’s injury Kevin De Bruyne’s still got it Politano Stands out among the Azzurri Stanislav Lobotka’s Slovakia shocks Germany Scott McTominay and Billy Gilmour represent Scotland Rasmus Højlund, Mathias Olivera, André-Frank Zambo Anguissa and Eljif Elmas Luca Marianucci impresses for the Azzurrini Vanja Milinkovic-Savic’s special request Noa Lang poses like a rapper Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Carmine Guadagno, President of the Napoli Club Toronto, joins Joe Fischetti to review Napoli’s last-gasp victory over Cagliari and to rate Napoli’s Summer transfer window, including: Part 1 - Napoli-Cagliari Review: Anguissa’s winner with the final kick of the match; how Antonio  Conte set the team up for success; Lorenzo Lucca’s underwhelming performance; Napoli’s poor set piece delivery; and Giuseppe Ambrosino’s senior team debut (~1:31) Part 2 - Rating Napoli’s Summer transfer window (~36:16) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Daniel Del Grosso joins Joe Fischetti to review Napoli’s opening match of the 2025/26 campaign against Sassuolo and to discuss lingering rumours as we approach the end of the Summer transfer window, including: Part 1 - Conte’s 4-1-4-1 formation and how it may be different on paper to his 4-3-3, but in principle, it’s the same; and individual performances:  Scott McTominay, Kevin De Bruyne, Lorenzo Lucca and Alex Meret (~1:27) Part 2 - Latest transfer rumours as we approach the end of the Summer mercato, including: Rasmus Hojlund, Juanlu, Eljif Elmas and others (~47:35) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gaetano Sollazo joins Joe Fischetti to recap the ritiro at Castel di Sangro and look ahead of the start of the 2025/26 campaign, including: Part 1 - General themes from the friendlies against Brest, Girona, Sorrento and Olympiakos; and how the Romelu Lukaku injury impacts Napoli and potential alternatives (~1:12) Part 2 - Assessment of the transfer markets of Napoli, Inter, Juventus, Milan, Atalanta and Roma; and a quick look ahead to the opening match of the season against Sassuolo (~23:45) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe Fischetti provides an update on Napoli’s Primavera team heading into the start of the Campionato Primavera, including: The last five seasons 2024/25 squad that earned promotion to Primavera 1 Outgoing players Incoming players Pre-season friendlies Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Vincenzo Bertillo and Gianluca Spinelli join Joe Fischetti to recap the ritiro at Dimaro, discuss the latest transfer news and pick their starting XI’s as of today, including: Part 1 - Friendlies against Arezzo and Catanzaro; Kevin De Bruyne’s fitness; Acquisition of Vanja Milinkovic-Savic and a potential competition for the No. 1 spot; and back-up left winger options with Dan Ndoye on his way to Nottingham Forrest (~1:44) Part 2 - Gianluca, VIncenzo and Joe pick their starting XI’s if the season were to start tomorrow (~46:54) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this special feature episode, Joe Fischetti picks his best ever Napoli starting XI, including: Part 1 - A bit about Napoletano street artist Jorit, who inspired this episode; and Napoli’s best ever goalkeepers, centre backs, full backs and defensive midfielders (~0:38) Part 2 - Napoli’s best ever wingers, attacking midfielders and strikers (~36:00) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the Season 7 premiere, Jurre van Wanrooij joins Joe Fischetti to discuss new Napoli winger, Noa Lang, including: Developing in the Ajax youth system A couple of loans before a permanent transfer to Club Brugge Two seasons at PSV Lang’s qualities and characteristics Noano Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the Season 6 finale, Gianluca Spinelli and Gaetano Sollazzo join Joe Fischetti to review the latest transfer rumours surrounding Napoli, including: Part 1 - Strikers: Lorenzo Lucca, Darwin Núñez and the ongoing Victor Osimhen saga; and Wingers: Dan Ndoye, Federico Chiesa and Antonio Nusa (~1:40) Part 2 - Midfielders: Anguissa and Lobotka both likely to stay; Centre Backs: Marianucci as the Rafa Marin replacement and a deal for Sam Beukema close to being completed; Full Backs: Juanlu to replace Mazzocchi; and Goalkeepers: Alex Meret extensions and backup goalkeeper rumours, including Vanja Milinković-Savić (~39:55) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Peter Scala and Dan Bowen join Joe Fischetti to review the 2024-25 campaign and discuss nominees for the 2024/25 Forza Napoli Awards, including: Part 1 - Pete, Dan and Joe make explain their nominees for the Forza Napoli Awards: Most Valuable Player Most Improved Player Goal of the Season Heart & Soul Award Next Man Up Award Best Signing (other than Scott McTominay) Lifetime Achievement Award (~1:51) Part 2 - Napoli sign Kevin De Bruyne: what he offers at the age of 34; what the signing represents in terms of the club’s growth and ambitions; and how he fits into a midfield that already features Lobotka, McTominay and Anguissa (should the Cameroonian remain at Napoli (~59:52) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Vincenzo Bertillo joins Joe Fischetti to review Napoli’s Scudetto-winning 2-0 over Cagliari at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, including: Part 1 - Build-up to the match; Inter’s taking the lead against Como midway through the first half; McTominay’s goal as a symbol for Napoli’s entire season, and how everyone has contributed; from relief to elation - Lukaku shows exactly why he was wanted; and the final whistle and ensuing celebrations, from the the trophy award to the parade (~1:32) Part 2 - Revisiting Season 5, Episode 21 - the first podcast after Antonio Conte joined Napoli; and the incredible achievement of the best league coach in the history of Serie A (~52:41) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this solo pod, Joe Fischetti provides a few thoughts on Napoli’s disappointing 2-2 draw against Genoa and previews the match against Parma on Sunday, including: Part 1 - Napoli-Genoa Review:  a disappointing result from a strong performance; Patrick Vieira’s clever starting XI; Genoa scoring two goals from two shots on target; Alex Meret and defensive lapses; the Lobotka gamble backfiring; and the penalty kick non-call (~0:46) Part 2 - Parma-Napoli Preview:  three reasons to be concerns about Parma; Should Conte stick with an in-form Raspadori in the 4-4-2 or revert back to 4-3-3; Parma’s injury woes and predicted starting XI; Napoli mentally ready; and the ridiculous potential schedule changes from Lega Serie A (~10:08) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Peter Scala joins Joe Fischetti to discuss Napoli’s current situation as favourites to win the Scudetto win only three matches remaining, including: Part 1 - A bone to pick with Pete; the untimely release of Spalletti’s autobiography; Inter’s Champions League success and Napoli being the odds-on favourites to win the league; who do we want to win (or lose) the Champions League final?; the best defense in Europe; and Conte’s tactical adjustments to manage injuries (~1:16) Part 2 - The legacy of Raspadori; McFrattm winning Serie A Player of the Month for April; a quick preview of Napoli-Genoa; and a quick, early look at some recent transfer rumours (~30:04) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Francesco Valenti joins Joe Fischetti to review Napoli’s lethargic 1-0 victory over Monza ahead of their final five matches of the season.  Part 1 - heavy legs and heavy minds, but the result is all that matters; Conte’s substitutions rescue a result; McTominay does it again; Rrahmani’s dependability; and Rafa Marin’s full debut (~0:52) Part 2 - Conte’s comments before and after the Monza match - what were his motivations and could the timing be any worse?; and a quick preview of Napoli-Torino (~33:39) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Evan Fischetti joins Joe Fischetti to review Napoli’s emphatic 3-0 victory over Empoli.  Part 1 - Napoli finally play a complete match; the double-pivot of Gilmour and Lobotka shining with Anguissa suspended; and Olivera compensating in attack (~0:50) Part 2 - McTominay man of the match; Lukaku goal contributions; who was the more important signing, McTominay or Lukaku?; the pace of Neres; Mazzocchi deputizing for Di Lorenzo; and a quick preview of Monza-Napoli (~17:54) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Daniel Russo joins Joe Fischetti to review Napoli’s 1-2 draw against Bologna, the first of back-to-back Monday fixtures.  Part 1 - Another dreadful second half performance; mental and physical decline exacerbated by Conte/Stellini making little use of their bench; full credit to a Bologna side who lead the league in points earned from losing positions; a very good first half, including Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa’s wonder goal; and a tip of the hat to Simone Scuffet (~0:43) Part 2 - A missed opportunity to close the gap on Inter; a positive spin on the draw to Bologna as it pertains to the Scudetto race; a quick chat about Eljif Elmas and his upcoming return to Napoli; and a quick preview of another Monday fixture, Napoli-Empoli  (~32:30) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Part 1 - McTominay’s absence somewhat a blessing in disguise as Conte reverts to the 4-3-3; Conceição’s sacrifices for the Coppa Italia; Napoli simply win when Lukaku scores; a deserved goal for Politano; and some shambolic defending from Milan (~1:15) Part 2 - Another poor second half, though not quite a tale of two halves, as Conceição’s substitutes are effective again; Alex Meret’s penalty kick heroics; Napoli lose their heads in the final 20 minutes and hang on for dear life; and a quick preview of Bologna-Napoli (~24:44) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Daniel Del Grosso joins Joe Fischetti to preview Napoli-Milan and to look ahead to the final stretch of the season.  Part 1 - Milan’s 2024/25 season similar to Napoli’s 2023/24 season; lots of changes in January, but similar results; a more resilient Milan with Conceição at the helm; should Napoli stick with the 3-5-2 or revert to the 4-3-3; predicted starting XI’s; and Milan’s recent success at the A Maradona (~1:42) Part 2 - Napoli’s unacceptable recent results; playing better against the top half than the bottom half; schedules are irrelevant if Napoli can’t beat Venezia, followed by a comparison of Napoli’s schedule to Inter’s; and incessant rumours about Conte’s departure (~34:23) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this solo podcast, Joe Fischetti reviews Napoli’s 2-1 victory over Fiorentina and previews Sunday’s match against Venezia. Part 1 - A few thoughts on Napoli-Fiorentina a week later:  ending the winless streak; Lukaku and Raspadori excelling in the 3-5-2; other standout performers; and some negatives from a match where all that mattered was the result (~1:13) Part 2 - Venezia-Napoli Preview:  the dreaded 12:30 PM kickoff time; Venezia’s recent form and inability to score since the departure of Joel Pohjanpalo; the addition of Alessio Zerbin; and predicted starting lineups (~23:24) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Evan Fischetti joins Joe Fischetti to review Napoli’s rejuvenating 1-1 draw against Inter and to preview Sunday’s match against Fiorentina, including: Part 1 - Napoli-Inter Review:  Billing’s late equalizer - perhaps the January market wasn’t so bad; Dimarco’s free kick against a dominant Napoli; Billy Gilmour’s standout performance and the direct, vertical football he enables; and Lukaku’s best game of the season (~1:35) Part 2 - Napoli-Fiorentina Preview:  Fiorentina’s defeat to Panathinaikos; Fiorentina’s injuries and suspensions and who Palladino might start against Napoli; Whether Conte will stick to the 3-5-2 or revert back to the 4-3-3; Conte’s pre-match press conference; and match predictions (~23:51) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Daniel Russo joins Joe Fischetti to review Napoli’s 2-1 defeat to Como ahead of the big clash against Inter on Saturday, including: Part 1 - Napoli’s struggles playing in a 3-5-2: buildup and defense; the recent increase in defensive errors, culminating in Amir Rrahmani’s own goal; Is Conte to blame for the injury crisis?; and key players looking exhausted: Lobotka, Anguissa and Lukaku (~1:11) Part 2 - A rant about some of the media reaction to Napoli’s recent struggles; the narrative that this has been Napoli’s Scudetto to lose; given the circumstances and recent dip in form, can Napoli still compete for the title?; the positives hidden behind the emotions, including the play of Billing, Raspadori, Spinazzola and Okafor, and how those players give Napoli much more flexibility against Inter (~17:12) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, Joe Fischetti reviews Napoli’s 2-2 draw to Lazio at the Stadio Olimpico and quickly previews the Como match; including: A fascinating tactical battle between Conte and Baroni: Napoli’s 3-5-2; the individual battles all over the park and how the coaches adjusted; and the respective substitutions Standout performances from Giacomo Raspadori and Alessandro Buongiorno Emotional reactions to three consecutive draws and Napoli’s missed opportunity to open up a gap between them and Inter Como-Napoli preview:  return of the away fans; Como playing to their opponents’ level; a very busy transfer market for the Serie A newcomers, backed by big money; will Conte stick with the 3-5-2?; and Anguissa a yellow card away from suspension with Inter on deck Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Vincenzo Bertillo joins Joe Fischetti to review Napoli’s somewhat heartbreaking 1-1 draw against Roma and to assess Napoli’s winter mercato, including: Part 1 - Roma-Napoli Review:  The missed penalty kick in favour of Napoli; two ex-Romanisti  combining to score the opening goal; momentum swing in the second half and a Napoli side that was a little too passive; Did Napoli drop points because of lack of activity in the market? And how this result might affect Napoli’s Scudetto challenge, if at all (~0:48) Part 2 - Winter mercato review: a thorough defense of Napoli’s inactivity on the market; how Napoli went from Garnacho to Okafor, and everyone in between, as the replacement for Kvaratskhelia; Giovanni Manna’s post-mercato conferenza stampa; and a Napoli side that is not as thin as some might think  (~38:32) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this bonus mini-pod, Joe Fischetti previews the derby del sole, including: A different Roma side compared to the last meeting in late November, including some impressive league results of late A different Napoli side as well, one that is no longer hanging on for 1-0 victories Predicted Starting XI’s A few quick comments on the winter mercato as the close of the transfer window nears Some questionable reporting on Antonio Conte’s comments about the winter mercato Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gianluca Spinelli joins Joe Fischetti to review Napoli’s come-from-behind 2-1 victory over Juventus, including: Part 1 - A dominant second half, quantitatively and qualitatively; the desire to win, exemplified by Politano and Simeone; and getting through the first half, past the dark arts and Juve’s 12th man (~1:24) Part 2 - Standout individual performances:  Anguissa amongst the front-runners for Serie A midfielder of the season; Spinazzola’s growing importance; Neres shining without shining; and an obligatory comment on Big Rom (~38:00) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this bonus mini-pod, Joe Fischetti previews Napoli’s big match against Juventus, including: - A lot of draws, not enough wins - The most dramatic team in Serie A - The ups and down of Thiago Motta - Cristiano Giuntoli under pressure - Projected Starting XIs - How Conte might react if Napoli don’t win Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dan Bowen joins Joe Fischetti to review Napoli’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Atalanta, including: Part 1 - Atalanta-Napoli Review: By far the most clinical match of the season; Napoli’s dominant midfield trio; Conte’s changes more effective than Gasperini’s; and Napoli tifosi greeting the team to and from Bergamo (~1:24) Part 2 - Closing the book on Kvaratskhelia’s big-money transfer to PSG and the rumours of Garnacho and Adeyemi as potential replacements (~32:31) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Frank Pilla joins Joe Fischetti to review Napoli’s revenge 2-0 victory over Hellas Verona, including: Part 1 - Napoli-Hellas Verona Review: Conte teams clicking in January and an improved attack; Di Lorenzo playing as a midfielder; Conte getting the most out of his players:  Spinazzola, Lukaku, Rrahmani, Jesus and Anguissa; and tributes to Daniele (~1:29) Part 2 -  Kvaratskhelia transfer to PSG: assessing his short stint at Napoli; is ADL really to blame?; and comparing Kvaratskhelia to Neres. Also, a quick preview of Atalanta-Napoli and Napoli’s upcoming schedule (~25:23) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Francesco Valenti joins Joe Fischetti to review Napoli’s comprehensive 3-0 victory over Fiorentina, including: Part 1 - Fiorentina-Napoli Review: Napoli finally play a complete match, taking advantage of the tactical errors of Raffaele Palladino; David Neres shines starting in place of Matteo Politano; Leonardo Spinazzola and Juan Jesus impressive deputizing for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Alessandro Buongiorno, respectively; and a few other standout individual performances (~1:24) Part 2 -  Rumours of possible transfer of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to PSG in January and a very, very quick preview of Napoli-Hellas Verona, including:  the Scaligeri’s recent run of form; Paolo Zanetti’s use of multiple formations; and some key Verona players to keep an eye on (~31:32) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this bonus mini-pod, Joe Fischetti previews Napoli’s final match of the Girone di Andata against Fiorentina, including: Fiorentina’s slow start of the season, followed by a phenomenal run of form and some recent stumbles; Raffaele Palladino’s rapid rise through the ranks; How Daniele Pradè has overhauled La Viola’s squad:  Attack, Midfield, Defense and, perhaps most importantly, Goalkeeper; Predicted starting lineups; and Match prediction Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this solo pod, Joe Fischetti reviews Napoli’s fifth 1-0 victory of the season, this time over Venezia, and provides a short update on the January transfer market, including: Part 1 - Napoli-Venezia Review:  Deserved 1-0 victory or another unsustainable performance?; Antonio Conte’s brilliant substitutions and the re-emergence of Jack Raspadori; David Neres on the right wing versus on the left; and more talk about Big Rom (~1:36) Part 2 -  January transfer market:  The departure of Mario Rui after seven seasons with Napoli; Likely departures, including Michael Folorunsho and Alessio Zerbin; veteran leaders targetted by Conte; and upcoming contract extensions (~18:24) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this solo pod, Joe Fischetti reviews Napoli’s 2-1 victory over Genoa and previews Napoli’s upcoming match against Venezia, including: Part 1 - Genoa-Napoli Review:  Another tale of two halves, but on this rare occasion, Napoli was better in the first half; Is the manner in which Napoli are winning matches sustainable? Alex Meret’s standout second half performance; Juan Jesus deputizing for Alessandro Buongiorno; and David Neres vs Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (~0:57) Part 2 -  Napoli-Venezia Preview:  Shoutout to Rigore! Podcast; Venezia’s first half of the season and how their ranking is perhaps not a reflection of their quality; predicted starting XI’s, including who will start on Napoli’s wings; Eusebio Di Francesco; and match prediction (~26:46) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tri-State Napoli Club President Gaetano Sollazzo joins Joe Fischetti to review Napoli’s 1-3 victory over Udinese, including: Part 1 - A classic tale of two halves - Conte’s tactical adjustments at the break; Lukaku’s opening goal; Neres deputizing for Kvaratskhelia; and Anguissa man of the match (~1:53) Part 2 -  Buongiorno’s back injury - who will play in his place against Genoa and Venezia? Potential January signings; and some other transfer rumours/ needs (~33:48) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Vincenzo Bertillo joins Joe Fischetti to review Napoli’s 1-0 defeat to Lazio in the pouring rain at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, including: Part 1 - Shoutout to Napoli Club Toronto; A sputtering Napoli attack; Lukaku, Kvaratskhelia and Politano; and resting everyone in the Coppa Italia, only to lose both matches (~1:01) Part 2 - Focus on the positives:  Napoli’s defence still stellar, despite the defeat; Conte’s approach and a dominant first half; Napoli’s record against direct rivals not yet an issue; and still only two points from top with a favourable schedule (~33:48) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices