Bijlow warns Hojlund’s world‑class threat ahead of Napoli clash

Genoa goalkeeper Maarten Bijlow said tomorrow’s clash with Napoli, the opening fixture of the 2026/2027 Serie A season, will be a true test, praising Napoli striker Rasmus Hojlund as a ‘world‑class striker’ while vowing to make his life difficult in the match.

In an interview published in the Stampa A− A+ section of Il Secolo XIX, Bijlow expressed his excitement about the upcoming game, saying, “I am enthusiastic, I can’t wait to play a full tournament in Serie A. And on the field I speak Italian.” He also mentioned his World Cup hopes, noting that the coach made different choices and that he must simply accept them.

Mental resilience and injury history

Bijlow opened up about his injury record, stating, “I have suffered many injuries, but I never gave up. Every time I reached a peak, I suffered a setback.” He added that he works with professionals to manage his mental state, calling it essential not only for football but for life in general.

He emphasized the team’s approach, saying, “We put intensity on the field, we are very aggressive. We live each match as a final.” The comments were part of the Ultime news coverage on the upcoming fixture.

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Facing Hojlund and Napoli's firepower

Bijlow noted that the only player in Serie A who has scored more than one goal against him is Napoli’s Hojlund, describing him as “a point of world‑class quality, but Napoli is very strong in general.” He pledged, “We will do everything to make his life difficult.”

The Genoa keeper also highlighted Napoli’s overall strength, adding that the team’s collective power will be a major challenge for his side.

Regarding his own ambitions, Bijlow said, “I aim to return to the national team but it is not an obsession.” He concluded that his primary focus remains “to save well with Genoa, that is the first thought.”