Napoli’s European evening against Villarreal will be marked by an unexpected absence in the Spanish side’s squad, after goalkeeper Peter Gulacsi was the victim of an armed robbery at his home in the early hours of the morning.
The incident took place at Gulacsi’s residence in a residential area of Valencia, around 60 kilometres from Vila-real. His family was also at home at the time. No further details of the robbery have been made public, but nobody was physically harmed.
The Hungarian goalkeeper has nevertheless been left shaken by the episode and will not be available for Villarreal’s match against Napoli tonight. Luiz Junior is set to take his place between the posts.
Luiz Junior returns to the Villarreal goal
Gulacsi’s withdrawal is a significant one for Villarreal. The experienced Hungary international arrived during the summer on a free transfer, initially expected to provide support and guidance to Luiz Junior.
Instead, Gulacsi moved ahead of the Brazilian in coach Inigo Perez’s pecking order and established himself as the first-choice goalkeeper.
Luiz Junior had begun the season as Villarreal’s starter before losing his place. He now faces a demanding return against Napoli, having made five Champions League appearances last season.
For Napoli, the match remains an important part of their European campaign. For Villarreal, however, the footballing preparations have been overshadowed by a serious incident away from the pitch, with the immediate priority being the wellbeing of Gulacsi and his family.
