PSV Eindhoven coach Peter Bosz has revealed the reasoning behind his surprising lineup choices for their Champions League clash against Napoli. Speaking to Ziggo Sport, Bosz explained that injuries to key strikers Ricardo Pepi and Myron Boadu forced him to consider alternative options for the forward position.
Til Gets the Nod Upfront
Ultimately, Bosz opted for Guus Til to lead the line. "I think he's a good striker," Bosz said of the attacking midfielder. "Why? Because he's proven it. Of course, he's not a classic striker. Pepi and Boadu are our primary strikers. But when those guys aren't fit enough to play a Champions League match and Guus has done so well, then I don't have to think about it for long."
Dest Benched for Latness
Sergiño Dest also found himself on the bench after reporting late. This forced Bosz into a reshuffle of his starting eleven. "I think we've been playing good football in recent weeks. I want to keep that intact as much as possible," he stated.
Schouten in Defence, Flamingo at Right-Back
Jerdy Schouten slotted into the defence, while Mauro Júnior played in midfield. Ryan Flamingo was deployed as the right-back against Napoli. "Ryan has played right-back at Vitesse, but also at Sassuolo. So he's used to it. He's not playing against a classic left winger. Scott McTominay is mainly someone who goes into midfield, and Flamingo has played that a lot at FC Utrecht. I think it's a good match," Bosz explained.
Bosz emphasised the importance of maintaining the team's recent good form, leading to his unconventional but calculated decisions. The match outcome will reveal if these choices paid off.