Setting off on their quest to defend the Scudetto, reigning Serie A champions Napoli will travel to Reggio Emilia on Saturday evening to face newly-promoted Sassuolo in what promises to be a compelling early-season clash. The Partenopei, under the stewardship of Antonio Conte, are entering the 2025–26 campaign with renewed ambition and a reinforced squad, aiming to secure a third Italian title in just four years. Their dramatic triumph last season, sealed on the final day, was a testament to their resilience and tactical discipline, and now they must prove that their success was not a fleeting moment but the foundation of a new era of dominance in Italian football.
Napoli’s title win in 2024–25 was anything but straightforward. Heading into the final matchday, they held a slender one-point lead over Inter Milan, who were simultaneously playing away at Como. The pressure was immense, and the stakes could not have been higher. Napoli needed a victory at home against Cagliari to guarantee the Scudetto, and they delivered when it mattered most. Scott McTominay, whose arrival had initially raised eyebrows, silenced doubters with a thunderous strike that settled nerves across the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona. Romelu Lukaku, ever the big-game player, added a crucial second goal shortly after halftime, effectively sealing the win and sparking jubilant celebrations across Naples. It was a moment of catharsis for a fanbase that had waited decades for sustained success, and it marked the club’s fourth top-flight title—following triumphs in 1986–87, 1989–90, and Luciano Spalletti’s memorable campaign in 2022–23.
Despite lacking the fluidity that had characterized their previous title-winning side, Napoli found a way to grind out results when it mattered most. Over the final seven fixtures, they won five and drew two, conceding just twice in the process. Their defensive solidity and mental fortitude proved decisive, especially as Inter faltered under the weight of expectation. Conte’s tactical pragmatism, often criticized for being overly cautious, was vindicated as his side held firm while others stumbled. The title win also marked a personal milestone for Conte, who became the first manager to win Serie A with three different clubs—Juventus, Inter, and now Napoli. His decision to extend his stay in Naples, following intense discussions with club president Aurelio De Laurentiis, signaled a commitment to building something lasting, a dynasty that could rival the great teams of Italian football history.
Over the summer, De Laurentiis backed his manager with a series of high-profile signings, most notably the acquisition of Kevin De Bruyne. The Belgian maestro, long considered one of the finest midfielders in world football, brings vision, creativity, and leadership to a Napoli side already brimming with talent. His arrival is a statement of intent, a signal that Napoli are not content with domestic success but are also eyeing European glory. Alongside De Bruyne, the club secured the services of Dutch defender Sam Beukema and towering striker Lorenzo Lucca, both of whom are expected to play key roles this season. Lucca, in particular, will be thrust into the spotlight immediately, deputizing for Lukaku, who suffered a serious thigh injury in the final pre-season match and is expected to be sidelined for several weeks.
Napoli’s pre-season preparations ended on a high note, with three consecutive victories that showcased their depth and adaptability. Conte experimented with various formations and personnel, integrating new signings and refining tactical nuances. The team now heads into their title defense with confidence and cohesion, ready to face a Sassuolo side that, while newly promoted, carries the weight of expectation and the hunger to prove themselves at the highest level. The last time Napoli visited the Mapei Stadium, they dismantled Sassuolo in a 6–1 rout, with Victor Osimhen netting a hat-trick and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia adding a brace. Both players have since departed, but the memory of that dominant performance lingers, and few expect the Neroverdi to reverse their fortunes against the reigning champions.
Sassuolo’s journey back to Serie A was spearheaded by Fabio Grosso, the former Lyon coach and 2006 World Cup winner. Taking charge of a squad that retained several key players despite relegation, Grosso instilled discipline and belief, guiding his team to the Serie B title with a six-point cushion over Pisa. His tactical acumen and ability to motivate players were evident throughout the campaign, and now he faces the daunting task of translating that success to the top flight. Sassuolo’s pre-season was steady, with draws against Empoli and Brest, and they began the new campaign with a 1–0 win over Catanzaro in the Coppa Italia, courtesy of a goal from Josh Doig, McTominay’s international teammate.
The Mapei Stadium was a fortress for Sassuolo last season, with 14 wins and just three defeats across 19 league matches. However, the step up in competition is significant, and Grosso’s men will need to elevate their performance levels considerably to compete with the likes of Napoli. The squad has been bolstered with a mix of permanent signings and loanees, including goalkeeper Arijanet Muric, defender Sebastian Walukiewicz from Torino, forward Alieu Fadera from Como, and midfielder Ismael Kone from Marseille. These additions bring depth and versatility, but the core of the team remains centered around familiar faces such as Armand Lauriente, Domenico Berardi, and Andrea Pinamonti.
Lauriente, Sassuolo’s top scorer in Serie B with 18 goals, remains a pivotal figure in their attack. Despite speculation linking him with a move away, the French winger has committed to the club’s project and will look to make his mark in Serie A. Berardi, a club icon, continues to be the heartbeat of the team, while Pinamonti’s return adds experience and physical presence up front. Together, they form a trident capable of troubling defenses, especially on the counterattack. Grosso is likely to adopt a pragmatic approach against Napoli, focusing on compactness and quick transitions, hoping to exploit any lapses in concentration from the visitors.
Napoli’s midfield will be a focal point, with De Bruyne expected to slot in alongside McTominay, Frank Anguissa, and Stanislav Lobotka. The quartet offers a blend of creativity, tenacity, and control, capable of dictating tempo and breaking down stubborn defenses. McTominay’s role may be slightly adjusted to accommodate De Bruyne’s roaming tendencies, but his leadership and work rate remain invaluable. Beukema will anchor the defense, providing aerial dominance and composure, while Lucca leads the line in Lukaku’s absence, tasked with holding up play and bringing others into the attack.
As the match approaches, anticipation builds. For Napoli, it is the beginning of a new chapter, one that could cement their status as Italy’s preeminent force. For Sassuolo, it is a chance to test their mettle against the best, to measure progress and identify areas for growth. The contrast in objectives—title defense versus survival—adds layers of intrigue to the encounter. Conte’s men will be expected to control proceedings, but Grosso’s side will not go down without a fight. The tactical battle between the two managers, both known for their meticulous preparation and adaptability, will be fascinating to observe.
Ultimately, the outcome may hinge on individual brilliance, moments of inspiration, and the ability to seize opportunities. Napoli’s pedigree and depth give them the edge, but Sassuolo’s spirit and home advantage could level the playing field. Whether it’s a De Bruyne masterclass, a Lauriente counterattack, or a tactical twist from Grosso, Saturday evening promises drama, intensity, and the kind of spectacle that makes Serie A one of the most captivating leagues in world football.
