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football legends René van der Gijp and Wim kieft, who question his current level and the suitability of Antonio Conte's tactics.">
football, PSV, Kevin de Bruyne, wim Kieft, René van der Gijp, football transfer, Champions League">
Lang’s Napoli Debut Falters: “He’s Not De bruyne,” Say Dutch Football Icons
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Naples, Italy – Dutch winger Noa Lang’s move to napoli this summer has so far failed to deliver the expected impact, with the 26-year-old seeing limited playing time under manager Antonio Conte. The situation has sparked debate in the Netherlands, with former football stars René van der Gijp and Wim Kieft offering critical assessments of Lang’s performance and Conte’s tactical approach.
Limited Minutes Raise Questions
Lang joined Napoli from PSV in a deal worth €28 million, signing a five-year contract. However, he has been largely confined to substitute appearances, accumulating just 51 minutes across four games this season. He is yet to register a goal or assist for his new club, making his debut appearance in the Champions League match against Sporting Portugal, which Napoli won 2-1.
Kieft and Van der Gijp Weigh In
Speaking on the Dutch program Kieftjansenegmondgijp, Wim Kieft suggested that Lang is not yet performing at the level expected of him.”Noa Lang is not De Bruyne, or Noa Lang is not Weah? It might be good for him that he has to get everything out of it,” Kieft stated, implying that the challenge coudl ultimately benefit the player.
René van der Gijp echoed Kieft’s sentiments, focusing on a perceived mismatch between Lang’s skillset and Conte’s tactical preferences. “You go to a trainer who has never played with offside players, because who has he sitting on the couch: Neres and Lang. He plays without offside players,” Van der Gijp explained, suggesting Conte’s system doesn’t utilize players who rely on making runs in behind the defense.
Conte’s Tactical Approach Under Scrutiny
The criticism centers on Conte’s apparent reluctance to employ offside traps, a tactic that could possibly benefit wingers like Lang and fellow Napoli attacker David Neres. The limited playing time raises questions about whether Lang can adapt to Conte’s system and prove his worth in Serie A.
It remains to be seen how Lang will fare at Napoli, but the early signs suggest he faces a significant challenge to establish himself as a key player under Antonio Conte.
What are your thoughts on Noa Lang’s situation at Napoli? Do you think he’ll be able to break into the frist team, or is a move away on the cards? Share your
