‘We are stronger under pressure’ – Napoli defender explains transition from Osimhen to Lukaku

Published on by Toyosi Afolayan

Napoli defender Amir Rrahmani has reflected on the differences between playing alongside Victor Osimhen and Romelu Lukaku following their commanding 4-0 win against Cagliari in Serie A. 

The 30-year-old praised the Belgium striker's presence on the pitch, while also acknowledging the impact of Osimhen, who recently departed on loan to Galatasaray.

Osimhen’s move to Turkey came after a summer of intense speculation linking him with clubs like Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, and Al Ahli. Following his sale, Napoli turned to Lukaku as their new attacking figurehead under the guidance of Antonio Conte. 

'With Victor Osimhen, we could not escape pressure' – Napoli defender explains transition to Lukaku
Photo by IMAGO

The introduction of the former Manchester United and Chelsea striker followed a turbulent start to the season with a loss to Verona, but Napoli have since recovered with three consecutive victories, including the emphatic Cagliari win.

Rrahmani reflects on tactical shift from Victor Osimhen to Lukaku

Rrahmani, speaking to Sky Sport Italia after the match, emphasized the team’s collective effort and credited both the players and coaching staff for the turnaround in form. 

“The credit goes to the whole group and the coach,” said Rrahmani. “Last year we suffered a lot, and we hope to continue like this.”

When asked about the contrast between Osimhen and Lukaku, Rrahmani offered insight into how Napoli’s tactics have evolved. 

““In previous years we had Osimhen, who kept the ball less and looked more for depth. With Lukaku instead, we can play even under pressure. He has a strong physique and helps us win second balls.”

Victor Osimhen, meanwhile, made an immediate impact in Turkey, registering an assist in Galatasaray's 5-0 demolition of Rizespor in his debut.

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Toyosi Afolayan

Toyosi Afolayan is a sports journalist who breathes life into the games we love. He loves to combine insightful analysis with historical background, creating a richer understanding of sports. Afolayan's expertise ranges from captivating narratives to live broadcasts, captivating audiences across platforms like Ojbsport, AllNigeriaSoccer, TVC Entertainment, Bounce Networks, Kwara TV, ICIR, EaglesTracker, and NFF TV. His background in History and International Studies adds depth, revealing the connections between sports, politics, and national identity.