Mathías Olivera
Set for left-back role
Olivera has been named in Uruguay's World Cup squad and is expected to start at left-back under coach Marcelo Bielsa, arriving at the tournament after a solid season with Napoli in Serie A.
Analysis: Olivera posted 42 tackles and 15 interceptions across 25 appearances including 15 starts this season, delivering a consistent defensive performance level that underlines his reliability and physicality on the left side of the backline. His ability to defend aggressively, win duels and contribute in the attacking phase with his overlapping runs and delivery from wide areas gives Uruguay a well-rounded and dynamic option at left-back. For Uruguay, Olivera provides the left-back position with a Serie A-tested defender whose defensive solidity and attacking ambition give the Celestes balance and energy on that side of the pitch throughout what promises to be a demanding group stage against strong opposition.
DNP in Bologna contest
Olivera (undisclosed) was an unused sub in Monday's 3-2 defeat versus Bologna.
Analysis: Olivera wasn't fielded after recuperating from a muscular ailment, as defenders Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Buongiorno and Amir Rrahmani played the whole game. He'll try to challenge one of the three in the last two fixtures.
Returns to bench
Olivera (undisclosed) is on the bench for Monday's match against Bologna.
Analysis: Olivera was training this week, and that has led to his return Monday, with the defender fit for a spot on the bench. He only missed one match due to the injury, and after seven straight starts before the injury, he hopes to return to that role to end the campaign.
Probable for Bologna meeting
Olivera (undisclosed) has been spotted in training after missing the previous game and will likely be a bench option Monday, Corriere dello Sport informed.
Analysis: Olivera escaped without more serious issues after being ruled out late last week, but Giovanni Di Lorenzo and Sam Beukema have better chances of starting in this one. He has registered three or more tackles in his last three outings (all starts), amassing 13 (five won) and posting four key passes, two interceptions and four clearances during that stretch, with no clean sheets.
Late scratch for Como fixture
Olivera won't play Saturday due to muscle fatigue, Napoli stated.
Analysis: Olivera made the trip to Como but was deemed unfit to perform because of some discomfort and will be re-evaluated ahead of May 11's home game versus Bologna. Sam Beukema is taking his place in the XI, while Giovanni Di Lorenzo is the only defender on the bench since Juan Jesus (personal) is also absent.
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