Ex Inter Milan & AC Milan Striker Argues ‘Absence Of Thuram Affects Inter More Than Neres Affects Napoli’ | OneFootball

Former striker Giampaolo Pazzini feels that the absence of Marcus Thuram hurts Inter Milan more than being without David Neres does Napoli.

The former Inter, AC Milan, Fiorentina, and Sassuolo striker gave his thoughts in today’s print edition of Milan-based newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport, via FCInterNews.

Inter Milan and Napoli are currently neck-and-neck at the top of the Serie A table.

And it is at a stage where every single detail could be decisive in such a fierce title race.

Injuries are certainly one factor that could influence the title race.

And for Inter, the most notable absence in the last few matches has been that of Marcus Thuram. The Frenchman has been out with a muscle problem he sustained against Bayern Munich.

Meanwhile, the Nerazzurri’s title rivals Napoli have had a big name absent in attack of their own.

Former Ajax and Benfica winger David Neres has been on the sidelines.

And without the Brazilian, Napoli have lacked some pace in attack.

Pazzini: “Thuram Absence Affects Inter Milan More Than Neres Does Napoli”

MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 16: Marcus Thuram of FC Internazionale competes for the ball with Eric Dier of FC Bayern Munchen during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Quarter Final Second Leg match between FC Internazionale Milano and FC Bayern München at San Siro on April 16, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Former striker Giampaolo Pazzini was asked which of the two absences he feels is felt more by the teams, out of  Marcus Thuram and David Neres.

And the 40-year-old answered “Thuram.”

“When he partners with Lautaro, he shifts the balance of this Inter,” Pazzini argued.

“Neres is a good player. But Napoli have shown that they can get results even without him.”

Meanwhile, Pazzini gave his thoughts on the player who is the “extra man” for Inter.

“Along with Thuram, Dumfries,” the former striker named. “His return will be vital for them.”

And for Napoli, “Raspadori was at his best when Neres was missing.”

“With him, Conte can also change the formation. And considering he hasn’t played as much, he will be really fresh physically.”