Napoli faced Como on February 23, 2025, under very important circumstances for the Scudetto race, but the absence of Frank Anguissa from the starting lineup raised eyebrows. Coach Antonio Conte, typically known for his unwavering trust in Anguissa, made the strategic decision to bench the midfielder due to yellow card concerns, aiming to preserve his availability for the more significant upcoming match against Inter.
Anguissa, who has been pivotal for Napoli throughout the season, entered the match under the added pressure of being one yellow card away from suspension. His previous yellow card, received during the match against Lazio, put him on alert. If he had been cautioned again during the match against Como, he would have faced automatic suspension for the key fixture against Inter on March 1, effectively sidelining him when his team could need him the most. This caution influenced Conte's decision markedly.
"Conte does not want to risk losing Anguissa for such a pivotal match. It’s too important to put him at risk when there are alternatives," reported various analysts, bringing attention to the tactical aspect of the decision. Instead of Anguissa, Conte opted to start Philip Billing, the former Bournemouth player making his debut for the club. This move not only highlighted Conte's readiness to adapt to challenges but also his strategic foresight concerning squad management.
Billing, noted for his versatility as a midfielder who can also play as an attacking midfielder, has made his way through the ranks since joining Bournemouth and was expected to step up when called upon. "Billing’s ability to contribute offensively and defensively will be put to the test today as he replaces someone of Anguissa’s caliber," commented team analysts prior to the match.
The match itself was poised to be competitive, with both teams fighting for points—Napoli to reclaim their place at the top of Serie A and Como to secure their position away from the relegation zone. With several players missing from the Como lineup, they were expected to fiercely contest every point. Yet, Napoli's tactical depth, showcased by billing’s introduction, seemed to offer them the edge needed.
While Anguissa's absence was notable, it also brought forward the fortitude of Napoli’s squad as they embraced the realities of league play. Over the past few months, injuries and suspensions have plagued teams across Serie A, forcing coaches to adapt quickly. Napoli, sitting neck-and-neck with Inter at the top of the table, could hardly afford to lose any more points.
"Conte’s decision is undoubtedly strategic, underscoring the importance of rotational depth during this phase of the season," said sports analysts following the match closely. The sentiments echoed concerns from fans about how such tactics would be covered, especially when considering the stakes involved.
How the decision pans out for both Anguissa and Napoli remains to be seen. Fans and pundits alike are eagerly awaiting the Inter clash to see how Anguissa’s eventual return will influence their title race standing.
Billing took to the field amid the roar of the crowd, with the challenge of stepping in for such a significant player showing the trust Conte has placed on him. It now rests on his shoulders to prove he is more than capable of filling Anguissa's shoes, especially under the pressure of Serie A.
With Napoli's ambitions at stake, every decision made by Conte is critically analyzed. The benching of Anguissa might be perceived as risky but it's rooted firmly within the framework of building squad resilience as they march toward what they hope will be another Scudetto. The outcome against Como would serve as both invaluable experience for Billing and would clear up expectations for Anguissa as he prepares for the showdown with Inter.
For Napoli and its supporters, the season isn’t merely about filling positions. It's fundamentally about adjusting strategies, managing player health, and ensuring the squad remains capable of fighting across multiple fronts. The benching of Anguissa signals not merely caution but the hope of securing triumphs when they most matter.