PLAYER SPOTLIGHT: Kalidou Koulibaly – A great 2017 for him, but 2018 could be fantastic

by Phumzile Ngcatshe

Tuesday Dec 19, 2017. 13:00

Senegal and Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly will be hoping to end 2017 on a high by helping the Italian giants bag a win over Udinese.

They meet Udinese in the Last 16 of the Italian Cup on Tuesday night and the Lions of Teranga centre-back has to ensure he helps the side reach the Last Eight.

With the side currently doing exceptionally well in the league, Koulibaly’s mission is to make a vital contribution once again on Tuesday.

Napoli currently sits at the top of the league standings from 17 games and have 42 points, one better than Juventus, who are placed second.

Apart from the Coppa Italia clash, their upcoming games sees them meeting Sampdoria in the league on Friday.

Their final 2017 encounter ahead of the New Year will be against Crotone away on Friday, December 29.

Personally, Koulibaly has had a great 2017 as he helped his national team to reach the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

On the other hand, the Partenopei are also in line of reaching the UEFA Europa League Round of 32 come 2018 when they will meet RB Leizpig in February.

Despite links with a move away from Italy, Koulibaly has a wonderful opportunity of tasting glory with the Italian side come end of the season, the Europa crown, Coppa Italia and the Serie A title are all on offer for the player.

Under the guidance of coach Aliou Cisse, he will also want to go all the way and shock the world in Russia at a global stage.