[인터풋볼] Reporter Dong-Hun Shin = New students, including Min-Jae Kim, breathed new life into Naples.
Naples went through a period of change this summer, releasing long-dedicated veterans. Dris Mertens, Lorenzo Insigne and Khalidu Coulibaly have left. Mertens and Insigne have played for Napoli since 2013 and 2010 respectively. Taking charge of the attack for a long period of time helped Napoli regain its former status.
Coulibaly was the Napoli defensive hack. With overwhelming physical, defensive, and build-up abilities, he was evaluated as the world’s best centre-back, surpassing Italy’s Serie A. After playing for Napoli for eight years, Coulibaly made a new home at Chelsea. Aside from the veterans, not only key figures like Fabian Luis, but also Andrea Petanya, David Ospina, and Fauzi Gulam packed their bags in Naples.
Napoli fans had to swallow the regrets as familiar faces left. The sadness didn’t last long. The newly recruited players performed at their best from the beginning of the season and were able to laugh. Kim Min-jae is an example. Min-jae Kim, who was recruited as a substitute for Coulibaly, came to Naples after proving that he could work in Europe at Fenerbahce. There were also doubts that he could replace Kuli Bali, but now everyone trusts Kim Min-jae.
He showed his skills on the field. Kim Min-jae was in charge of the Napoli defense by matching Amir Rahmani. He was not pushed when competing on the ground or in the air, and both tackles and clearing were neat. He was well positioned and his build-up was excellent. When Mario Hui or Matthias Oliveira moved forward as left full-backs, they made sure to cover. He has already scored two goals and has also played a major role in the UEFA Champions League (UCL) match against Liverpool.
Kim Min-jae, who has emerged as a key defensive player, Hvica Kravatshelia, Matthias Olivera, and Giovanni Simeone all showed excellent game content. André Zambo Anguisa, who was completely transferred, also improved from last season and made him forget Luis’s vacancy. He also has hopes for Giacomo las Padori, Tanguy Ndom Belle and Leo Östergard.
Liverpool, who suffered a 1-4 loss to Napoli, interviewed Napoli expert and big fan Michele Borelli at the club level.
Borelli said: “Insigne, losing Coulibaly was a huge loss. Nevertheless, Naples succeeded in a generational change. Starting with Kim Min-jae, a large number of young players joined, filling the void. Naples, which was initially terrified by uncertainty, is now full of excitement and hope.” It represented the feelings of Naples fans now.
