Rafael Leao and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia will be the two protagonists of Milan-Napoli this Sunday, hoping to make the most of their impressive qualities. Today’s edition of Gazzetta Dello Sport outlined the duo’s respective roles, with all eyes certainly on them.
The reverse fixture between Milan and Napoli ended 2-2, despite the Rossoneri securing a 0-2 lead for the interval. It was a great spectacle for the neutral fan, in fairness, but both sides will be looking for all three points on Sunday.
As highlighted by today’s edition of Gazzetta dello Sport (see the photo below), everything will pass through the two stars Rafael Leao and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. Two wingers with fantastic skill and a high ceiling, but with a lot riding on day form.
The best goal of last season, which arrived in the UCL semi-final clash between Milan and Napoli, was actually created by both Leao and Kvaratskhelia. The latter’s misplaced pass was picked up by the Rossoneri star, who then did everything on his own to set up Olivier Giroud.
In that game, as Kvaratskhelia also missed a penalty, everything really did pass through the duo. On Sunday, the two will collaborate once again to ‘evoke the beauty’ of the Milan-Napoli fixture, as the newspaper puts it.
Kvara and his struggles
There is no doubt that Kvara has struggled post-Scudetto, and some would say post-Milan, but he has remained an important player for Napoli. The first league goal, against Udinese on September 27, came after a 192-day goal drought. Something that the winger attributed to the style of Rudi Garcia.
With Mazzarri, things have certainly improved. The Georgian is now only focused on unpredictability, using his main strengths, and the team is ready to assist him. His shooting has not been on the same level this season, with the same amount of shots on target but with more attempts (74 vs. 53 last season).
Having said that, Kvara is still one of the best in the league when it comes to beating his main, and finding that space to shoot. This is something that Milan and Davide Calabria – who has been great against Kvara in the past – will have to beware of.
Generous Rafa
Leao has only scored three goals in the league this season, compared to six goals at this stage last season, and he’s yet to hit double figures for shots on target (9). This is rather absurd for a player like Leao, as the newspaper continues, also because he had reached 21 at this point in the Scudetto season.
Having said this, Leao has improved his work in the final third, registering six assists this season and creating a lot more chances for Milan. Getting into the penalty box has been another key factor, increasing his touches in that area.
Now, and especially after the great Frosinone display, Milan are hoping to be able to count on the best Leao. This time, however, Kvara has no intention of passing the ball to him for another wonder goal. So keep an eye on them, Sunday’s clash could indeed be a fantastic one.
