Allegri’s Challenging Start
Massimiliano Allegri has taken the helm at Napoli, but his tenure has begun with significant challenges. The club reportedly turned to Allegri after failing to secure Vincenzo Italiano, who instead joined Besiktas [1]. Under Allegri, Napoli has managed only two victories, one draw, and three losses across all competitions so far this season [1]. This inconsistent form has led to a disappointing tally of just seven points from their first five Serie A games, marking one of their worst starts in a decade [2].
Allegri himself is reportedly frustrated with the attitude of his players, stating that they are “not doing enough” and a “different attitude is needed” [3]. Rumours suggest he has not seen the required level of hunger or desire from the squad [4]. This sentiment follows reports of a heated outburst in the dressing room after a 1-1 draw against Fiorentina [4], highlighting the growing tension within the club.
Player Form and Fitness Concerns
Several key players are under scrutiny due to form and fitness issues. Kevin De Bruyne, who insists he did not try to leave Napoli during the summer transfer window [2], has admitted to a rough start to the season under Allegri [2]. He has struggled to meet expectations since joining the club and has reportedly lost his starting spot [3]. There are even rumours of a breakdown in his relationship with the manager [4].
Upfront, Rasmus Hojlund has scored only two goals in five Serie A appearances, with his limited touches in the opposition box highlighting Napoli’s attacking struggles [5]. Midfield stability is also a concern, as Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa has begun rehabilitation for a new adductor injury, expected to keep him out for three weeks [6]. Additionally, Scott McTominay is currently unavailable, and Noa Lang was left out of a Champions League game for disciplinary reasons [3].
Tactical and Attitudinal Challenges
The early season struggles point to deeper issues within the Napoli squad beyond just individual performances. Allegri’s reported frustration with the players’ attitude suggests a disconnect between the coach’s expectations and the team’s output. The manager’s comments about the need for a “different attitude” underscore a perceived lack of commitment or intensity from some members of the squad [3]. This attitudinal problem, combined with a string of injuries to key personnel, creates a challenging environment for Allegri to implement his tactical vision.
Napoli’s inability to convert opportunities and their defensive vulnerabilities have contributed to their poor points tally. The team’s form, with only two wins in their first five Serie A matches, indicates that they are yet to find a consistent rhythm. Addressing these issues, both in terms of player mentality and tactical execution, will be crucial for Allegri if Napoli is to turn their season around and climb the Serie A table.
What it means
Napoli currently sits in 9th position in Serie A with 7 points from 5 games, having scored 7 goals and conceded 6. Their recent form shows two wins, one draw, and two losses in their last five Serie A matches. The draw against Fiorentina and a narrow home win against Bologna highlight their inconsistency. A Champions League loss to Arsenal and a Serie A defeat to Inter Milan further illustrate the challenges they face against top-tier opposition. The upcoming fixture will be crucial for Napoli to regain momentum and improve their standing in the league.
Sources
- Football Italia: Italiano ‘had an agreement with Napoli’ before Besiktas took advantage of problems football-italia.net ↩
- Football Italia: De Bruyne claims he didn’t try to leave Napoli, but admits ‘a rough start to the season’ football-italia.net ↩
- Football Italia: Allegri frustrated with Napoli veterans including De Bruyne as warning echoes Conte football-italia.net ↩
- Football Italia: Allegri punched walls in the dressing room after Fiorentina 1-1 Napoli as tension rises football-italia.net ↩
- Football Italia: Stats show Hojlund struggling at Napoli under Allegri football-italia.net ↩
- Football Italia: Napoli confirm extent of latest Anguissa injury after Fiorentina 1-1 Napoli football-italia.net ↩
