Elmas Confident as Napoli Gear Up for Crucial Frankfurt Clash
Napoli are gearing up for one of their most important Champions League fixtures tonight as they face Eintracht Frankfurt at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona. The atmosphere in Naples is buzzing, but the pressure is also mounting. After a rocky start to their European campaign, this is a must-win game for Antonio Conte’s men if they want to stay in contention for the top spots in the league phase table.
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Midfielder Eljif Elmas has stepped up to share his thoughts ahead of the match, making it clear that he’s ready to give his all for the team — no matter the role he’s asked to play. Speaking to Sky Sport Italia , Elmas explained, “Sometimes it’s difficult for people to understand where I can play, but I’m always available for the coach and the team, wherever I’m needed.” His flexibility has become a key asset for Napoli, especially at a time when injuries and suspensions are limiting Conte’s choices.
Elmas, who rejoined Napoli in the summer on loan with an option to buy for €16 million, has had quite a journey recently. After leaving Naples at the start of 2024 for RB Leipzig, he struggled to find his rhythm in the Bundesliga and was later loaned to Torino, where he regained his form. Now back under Conte’s command, the North Macedonian midfielder is eager to make his mark again. “I’m naturally a trequartista,” he added, “but there aren’t many playing that role anymore. I adapt to what’s needed and try to perform my best.”
Napoli’s Champions League campaign so far has been a rollercoaster. They managed a narrow 2-1 home victory over Sporting CP but were heavily beaten by Manchester City and PSV Eindhoven. After just three games, they sit 23rd in the league phase table — a worrying position for a side with such high ambitions. Conte knows that anything less than three points tonight could leave them facing a tricky playoff path.
Adding to the tension, Napoli’s squad is stretched thin. Lorenzo Lucca is suspended after his red card in Eindhoven, while several key players — including Kevin De Bruyne, Billy Gilmour, Leonardo Spinazzola, Alex Meret, and Romelu Lukaku — are sidelined with injuries. On the bright side, midfielder Stanislav Lobotka is back in the starting lineup after a month-long absence, while Rasmus Hojlund will lead the attack, supported by Matteo Politano and Elmas.
Their opponents, Eintracht Frankfurt, have had a strange Champions League run so far, with all three of their matches ending 5–1 — one win and two defeats. Jonathan Burkardt, with three goals in three games, will be their main threat tonight.
As kickoff approaches, Elmas’s words echo through Naples: “We’ve worked hard and we’re focused. This game means a lot, and we hope the fans’ energy drives us to victory.” For Napoli, it’s not just another night under the lights — it’s a chance to reignite their European dream.
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