After more than four months on the sidelines, Napoli winger David Neres has been named in Antonio Conte's squad for Sunday's crucial clash against Pisa—a timely boost as the Partenopei look to secure Champions League football next season.
The Brazilian star hasn't featured since early January, when he suffered a left ankle injury during Napoli's match against Lazio. What initially seemed like a routine knock turned out to be an Achilles tendon problem that required surgery, ruling him out for the remainder of winter and spring. His return now comes just in time for the final two matches of the campaign.
According to Sky Sport via Goal.com, Neres is among the convocated players for the trip to the Cetilar Arena, though fans shouldn't expect him in the starting XI. The 27-year-old is likely to begin on the bench, with Conte potentially giving him a cameo appearance depending on the match flow and his physical condition.
This is a welcome sight for Napoli supporters, who remember Neres being in the best form of his season before the injury. His return adds depth to an attack that needs all hands on deck for what is essentially a must-win fixture.
Three points against already-relegated Pisa would mathematically book Napoli's place in next season's Champions League, making this a high-stakes encounter regardless of results elsewhere. Having Neres back in the squad—even if only for a late substitute appearance—gives Conte another weapon in his tactical arsenal as the team pushes to seal the deal. For a player who has been through surgery and months of rehabilitation, even a few minutes on the pitch would be a powerful statement of resilience.
