Napoli director Giovanni Manna has confirmed that while Billy Gilmour is close to a return, the fitness of long-term absentees Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku remains uncertain heading into the January window.
Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manna has provided a significant update on the fitness of several key players ahead of the January transfer window.
While confirming that midfielders Billy Gilmour and Frank Zambo Anguissa are nearing a return to action, Manna admitted serious uncertainty surrounds star duo Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne.
The club is currently assessing the market to provide manager Antonio Conte with attacking reinforcements to maintain their competitive edge.
De Bruyne and Lukaku Injury Struggles Continue
Kevin De Bruyne is scheduled to return to Naples in mid-January to begin athletic reconditioning following surgery for a severe thigh tear suffered in October.
Meanwhile, Romelu Lukaku’s situation is even more concerning, as the striker has yet to feature this season due to a similar injury sustained in August.
Regarding their recovery, Manna noted, “We had an idea, but then you need to understand how the body reacts at a certain age.”
Manna Backs Conte and January Strategy
Despite the injury setbacks, Manna praised the work of Antonio Conte, labeling him the best Italian coach.
He confirmed the club expects to finalize a permanent deal for Rasmus Hojlund but emphasized that January arrivals must not disrupt the team’s chemistry.
“We want to reward Conte and the players’ work by raising the team’s level, but without breaking the balance. We’ll try. January is always tricky,” Manna told Corriere dello Sport.