As Empoli prepare to close out the year, they face a challenging situation with their injury list ahead of their match with Genoa. Pietro Pellegri and Ola Solbakken lead a group of sidelined players that also includes Szymon Zurkowski, Tyronne Ebuehi, Saba Sazonov, and Nicolas Haas. However, there’s a silver lining for manager Roberto D’Aversa, as Jacopo Fazzini has recently returned from injury and could be in contention for a starting role. Additionally, experienced defender Mattia De Sciglio is available again after serving a suspension.
The spotlight will be on Empoli’s striking duo of Lorenzo Colombo and Sebastiano Esposito. Esposito, in particular, has a history of success against Genoa, having scored against them for Inter Milan at the tender age of 17 years and 172 days. This feat made him the second-youngest scorer in Serie A history for the Nerazzurri.
Genoa’s offensive efforts will be led by former Inter Milan striker Andrea Pinamonti. Interestingly, Pinamonti enjoyed his most prolific Serie A season while on loan at Empoli in 2021-22, scoring 13 goals. His familiarity with the Castellani stadium could prove advantageous for the visitors.
While Genoa have also grappled with injuries, their situation is improving. Koni De Winter and Jeff Ekhator have recently resumed full training, joining several others who have returned to fitness. Currently, only Junior Messias and Ruslan Malinovskyi remain on Genoa’s injury list.
Empoli (3-5-2): Vasquez; Goglichidze, Ismajli, Cacace; Gyasi, Anjorin, Henderson, Maleh, Pezzella; Esposito, Colombo
Genoa (-43-3): Leali; Sabelli, Bani, Vasquez, Martin; Frendrup, Badelj, Miretti; Zanoli, Pinamonti, Vitinha
