Alisson Santos was one of the standout players in the match between Napoli and Roma, in the 25th round of Serie A, which ended in a 2-2 draw. The winger, loaned from Sporting to the Neapolitans, equalized in the 82nd minute, twelve minutes after coming onto the pitch. However, Alisson's debut goal does not raise expectations about him, according to Napoli coach Antonio Conte. The Italian coach emphasized the need for the 23-year-old winger to adapt, as well as Giovane, both signed in the winter transfer window. "They came in a bit timid against Como [in the Coppa Italia]. They have been with us for two weeks and need to understand the game. Compared to Giovane, Alisson is better in one-on-one situations; when he faces you, he can get past you. They are two young players who have completely changed their lives, and I am happy," the Napoli coach told DAZN. Conte believes that Alisson and Giovane have "desire and humility, without arrogance or presumption" and accept that "they need to understand the dynamics of the game." In the post-match press conference following the draw against Roma, Antonio Conte justified the signing of the two Brazilian winter reinforcements: "The club signed them to expand the attacking options. We were short, especially since Neres was operated on and Lang." The Italian coach also took the opportunity to calm the situation and praise the commitment of the Napoli squad: "We are not putting pressure on Alisson, who was never a starter at Sporting. They are excellent players who give their all: if you ask them to play as a goalkeeper, they will do it."
Sporting Alisson Santos remains central to this story.
Sporting Alisson Santos remains central to this story.
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