Football: Soccer-Master passer Lobotka is central to Slovakia’s fortunes

(Reuters) – Much of Stanislav Lobotka’s best work on the pitch goes largely unnoticed but the midfielder with a stunning passing range will be a key member of Slovakia’s side when they compete at the European Championship in Germany.

Lobotka, 29, featured in all 38 games for Napoli as they swept to the 2022-23 Serie A title and while Victor Osimhen, Giovanni Di Lorenzo and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia drew many of the plaudits, the Slovak’s influence was just as strong.

Earlier in his career he was compared to Croatia’s Luka Modric and former Spain and Barcelona midfielder Xavi, and he topped the passing statistics in Napoli’s title-winning campaign with no player in the Italian league able to beat his 94.2% success rate.

Barcelona’s then coach Xavi made a not-so-subtle suggestion when talking about Lobotka in March.

“I like Lobotka; he is good in the build-up and doesn’t lose possession. I’d like to see him at a club like Barca,” he told reporters.

Napoli spent a reported 23 million euros ($24.75 million) to sign Lobotka in January 2020 on the advice of their former captain and Slovakia international Marek Hamsik.

It was a slow start but once coach Luciano Spalletti arrived a year later and decided to build his side around the diminutive midfielder, the player embraced the challenge.

He has also been a vital part of his national side since making his debut in 2016, having amassed 54 caps and scored four goals.

His relationship with Slovakia’s Italian coach Francesco Calzona will be key –- the latter held a dual role in charge at Napoli for the final four months of the 2023-24 season, so has worked with Lobotka almost every day in that time.

When the player’s father died just hours before the Euro 2024 qualifier with Portugal in September, he decided to play, earning praise from his coach.

“I am glad to work with Stan, who is a great player, but also a great man,” Calzona said.

A strong showing at the Euros will only enhance his reputation but is also vital for the fortunes of Slovakia. If he plays well, generally so do they. The reverse is also true though.

Lobotka made his professional debut for Slovak side AS Trencin and had a season on loan in the reserve side at Ajax Amsterdam in 2013-14 but never featured for the senior side.

He had two seasons at Danish side Nordsjaelland and three with Celta Vigo in Spain, before his move to Napoli in January 2020.

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(Reporting by Nick Said; Editing by Toby Davis)