Serie A‘s 21st matchday is seemingly a transitional round, but potentially a decisive one. It opens on Friday, January 16th at 8:45 PM with Pisa vs. Atalanta and concludes on Monday, January 19th, also at 8:45 PM, with Lazio vs. Como, marking a weekend without any real big matches, but far from trivial.

The very absence of a marquee clash makes this round particularly tricky: on paper, unbalanced matches, teams with different objectives and opposing pressures, and the real risk of missteps that could lead to significant upsets at both the top and bottom of the table. This round should be read with more caution than enthusiasm, where consistency and energy management can make as much of a difference as talent.

Formation: 3-4-3

• GOALKEEPER

Mike Maignan (Milan vs Lecce) — €6.4M

This round, the Rossoneri face Lecce, a team that struggles to score goals. Under Max Allegri, Milan have a very careful and precise defense. Maignan is one of the most reliable goalkeepers in the league and among the leaders in clean sheets so far.

• DEFENDERS

Gianluca Mancini (Torino vs Roma) — €8.0M

Mancini is the undisputed leader of Roma’s defense. His presence makes the difference and can ensure stability in a game that’s anything but predictable.

Diego Carlos (Lazio vs Como) — €5.5M

Diego Carlos is a defender with extensive European experience. Lazio have made numerous transfers, and the Biancocelesti’s attack is struggling to get going. Diego Carlos can provide order and reliability.

Federico Baschirotto (Cremonese vs Hellas Verona) — €7.9M

A clash of two smaller clubs: Cremonese, who have had a positive season so far, so much so that they’re sitting in mid-table, while Verona are fighting to avoid relegation. Baschirotto can limit the Gialloblu’s attacking runs and make the difference in one-on-one situations. A risky choice, but one with the potential for a positive return.

• MIDFIELDERS

Scott McTominay (Napoli vs Sassuolo) — €10.4M

The Scotsman is indispensable: he’s scored crucial goals and continues to deliver consistent performances. Napoli is relying on his performances, and McTominay is the midfielder most likely to make an impact at this stage of the season.

Khéphren Thuram (Cagliari vs Juventus) — €7.2M

A player on the rise, just like Spalletti’s Juventus, Thuram can cause problems for Cagliari, a struggling team, and offer valuable bonuses thanks to his ability to get forward and finish.

Riccardo Orsolini (Bologna vs Fiorentina) — €8.5M

He may not be in the best of form in terms of scoring, even though he scored against Verona in the rescheduled round, but he remains a constant threat from set pieces and attacking moves. His left foot can make the difference against anyone.

Christian Pulisic (Milan vs Lecce) — €10.3M

The American is reliable and consistent. Against Lecce, Milan must return to winning ways, and Pulisic is the right player to guarantee bonuses and solid performances.

• FORWARDS

Lorenzo Colombo (Parma vs Genoa) — €5.6M

Colombo has scored three goals in his last three games, returning to great form after a disappointing spell. Against Parma, he will be crucial for Genoa in their fight to avoid relegation.

Lautaro Martínez (Udinese vs Inter) — €11.6M

Inter have historically struggled in Udine, but Lautaro remains a sure thing, especially against smaller teams. Captain, goalscorer, and attacking focal point: a no-brainer.

Gianluca Scamacca (Pisa vs Atalanta) — €5.8M

Scamacca is expected to start, beating Krstovic, and when he faces bottom-placed Pisa, he’s very likely to score. Palladino’s team is chasing another win to reach the top spots of the standings.