MILAN, Italy, Jan 16, (V7N) – Serie A enters a pivotal weekend with Atalanta hosting league leaders Napoli in a clash that could shape the three-way Scudetto battle, which also includes reigning champions Inter Milan.

Atalanta's Challenge

Gian Piero Gasperini's Atalanta are unbeaten in 15 matches but have drawn their last three, leaving them four points adrift of Napoli. A 1-1 draw with Juventus on Tuesday highlighted their resilience but also their difficulty in converting dominance into wins.

Gasperini called this match a "crossroads," with a loss potentially derailing their title hopes. Mateo Retegui, returning from injury, provides a boost, though he may start on the bench as Atalanta balance league ambitions with their Champions League campaign.

Napoli's Momentum

Napoli, under Antonio Conte, are on a five-match winning streak and lead the table. The absence of European commitments has allowed Conte to focus solely on domestic success. Despite losing key players from last season's title-winning squad, including Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Conte’s side looks formidable.

Inter's Position

Inter Milan, three points behind Napoli with a game in hand, face Empoli on Sunday. Marcus Thuram's return bolsters their attack, but the continued absence of Hakan Calhanoglu is a concern for Simone Inzaghi's side.

Juventus vs. AC Milan

Juventus, currently fifth, welcome AC Milan in a crucial battle for Champions League qualification. Newly arrived Randal Kolo Muani could start, offering Juve a much-needed attacking option in the absence of Dusan Vlahovic and Arkadiusz Milik.

Key Fixtures

Friday: Roma v Genoa (1945 GMT)

Saturday: Blogna v Monza (1400 GMT), Juventus v AC Milan (1700 GMT), Atalanta v Napoli (1945 GMT)

Sunday: Fiorentina v Torino (1130 GMT), Cagliari v Lecce, Parma v Venezia (1400 GMT), Verona v Lazio (1700 GMT), Inter Milan v Empoli (1945 GMT)

Monday: Como v Udinese (1945 GMT)

Player to Watch: Randal Kolo Muani

Surplus to requirements at PSG, Kolo Muani seeks to revive his form at Juventus. His arrival is timely for a team struggling with injuries and looking to solidify a top-four position.

This weekend could significantly reshape the Serie A standings, as teams atthe top face critical challenges.

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