Former Torino star João “Pia” Inácio has revealed that he prefers Nigerian ahead Ademola Lookman over Napoli winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, citing Lookman’s versatility as a key issue, Soccernet.ng studies.
Each Lookman and Kvaratskhelia have dazzled Serie A followers over the previous two seasons, delivering persistently high-quality performances for membership and nation.
Kvaratskhelia was instrumental in Napoli’s triumph in Serie A final 12 months, whereas this summer time noticed him assist Georgia qualify for his or her first-ever European Championship.
In the meantime, Lookman had a standout 12 months with Atalanta, serving to the membership carry their first Europa League title in Could after main Nigeria to the Africa Cup of Nations ultimate in Côte d’Ivoire.
His efforts earned him a spot on the 2024 Ballon d’Or shortlist, the place he completed 14th — rating as the highest African participant and second-best Serie A performer, simply behind Inter Milan’s Lautaro Martinez.
João Inácio, who loved a distinguished profession in Italy, shared his admiration for Lookman in an interview with Radio Marte.
“Who do I select between him and Kvaratskhelia? Personally, I just like the Nigerian higher, as a result of he may also play inside the sector,” Brazil’s Inácio acknowledged.
“The Georgian is devastating if he stays broad, along with his toes on the road, whereas Lookman may also play as a second striker: I choose versatile gamers.”
This weekend, Lookman and Kvaratskhelia are set to face off as Atalanta tackle Napoli in a top-flight conflict.
Below new supervisor Antonio Conte, Napoli have loved a blistering begin to the season and presently lead Serie A.
Nonetheless, Inácio, who has performed for each golf equipment, believes Lookman might pose a novel menace to Napoli.
“What risks does Napoli danger working into? Atalanta can shock you in assault as a result of they’ve gamers who can change roles through the recreation and transfer to completely different positions,” he defined.
“I’m pondering of Lookman, for instance, who strikes lots.”
Lookman has continued his spectacular type this season, netting 4 targets and offering 4 assists in simply seven matches for Atalanta.
As a prime contender for the African Footballer of the Yr award, Lookman’s skills are clear, and his performances have solely bolstered why he’s catching the attention of icons like Inácio.