Pinamonti and that fatal double against Napoli: his big chance at the Maradona and for Lazio

Pinamonti starts at the Maradona after scoring crucial goals against Napoli in 2022 with Empoli; Gattuso backs him to deliver.

Andrea Pinamonti has endured a difficult start at Lazio since arriving from Sassuolo, competing for the striker role with Noslin and previously facing competition from Icardi. Manager Gattuso has consistently backed him, rejecting moves for other forwards and defending his choice even after the transfer window closed.

Pinamonti will get his chance to shine in Sunday's match at the Maradona against Napoli, starting as centre-forward with Noslin shifting to the wing in place of the injured Zaccagni. The assignment carries extra weight: in 2022, playing for Empoli, Pinamonti scored a crucial double against Napoli that derailed their title bid. Gattuso has selected him believing he can press, hold up play and score—the full striker's role Lazio need. The manager embraced him after his decisive goal against Cagliari, signalling his faith in the forward's ability to deliver the big performance the club demands.