Careca: McTominay ‘the key’ Napoli player, but criticism of De Bruyne unjustified

Napoli legend Careca insists that Scott McTominay remains the ‘key player’ for the Partenopei, but criticism of Kevin De Bruyne are not justified.

Napoli host Inter at the Stadio Maradona today, but the Partenopei need a reaction after suffering two consecutive defeats across Serie A and the Champions League.

One of the big talking points at the Stadio Maradona concerns the co-existence between McTominay and De Bruyne.

“De Bruyne has just arrived and is trying to integrate as best as he can. If we start criticising someone like the Belgian, it’s over. We’re talking about a star, a winner,” Careca told Gazzetta.

“He’ll always find his place on the pitch. The key man, however, remains McTominay, who impresses me with his physical strength and his ability to make runs into the box. He’s a midfielder who’s as tall as he is quick, unpredictable in the area. Often last season, he was the real striker. If McTominay is already fully integrated into Conte’s team, De Bruyne will get there as well.”

Napoli coach Conte is under pressure as the Partenopei have already lost four games across all competitions this season, but a win today would send his team back to the top of the table after Milan’s 2-2 draw with Pisa on Friday.

“Conte is a true leader. I met him six months ago in Naples after the Scudetto,” said Careca.

“We talked about football, and I saw a determined man, the ideal person to win more titles. The fans should not have any doubts about him.”

Napoli have limited options in attack today as both Romelu Lukaku and Rasmus Hojlund are injured. Lorenzo Lucca has failed to impress this term, scoring just one goal, so David Neres is expected to start as a false nine.

“Romelu was a key man, but the club brought a very talented player like Hojlund to replace him,” concluded Careca.

“Being able to sign a Manchester United striker gives you an idea of the level this club has reached. Hojlund needs time to settle in properly, but it seems he’s getting there.

“It’s a big loss, but Napoli have several options, such as Neres or Lucca. Conte will find a way to remain dangerous. McTominay and De Bruyne are almost like forwards.”