Massimiliano Allegri has yet to be officially announced as Napoli’s coach, but planning for a new era is already well underway. Whilst legal discussions continue between the Tuscan manager and AC Milan regarding the termination of his contract, Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis is working to provide his new coach with a squad capable of immediately challenging for major honours.
The relationship between Allegri and Milan appears to have ended on sour terms. Reports in Italy suggest that disagreements remain regarding compensation for Allegri and his coaching staff, as well as the manner in which the dismissal was communicated. It is understood that the official notice arrived several days after news of the separation had already become public, with Allegri’s representatives reportedly considering whether there are grounds for a claim relating to reputational damage.
Despite the dispute, Napoli’s transfer planning continues at full speed. One of the names strongly linked with the club is French midfielder Adrien Rabiot, a player who enjoyed some of the best football of his career under Allegri. With Kevin De Bruyne expected to leave Naples despite Antonio Conte’s departure, Rabiot has emerged as a priority target for the incoming coach.
Napoli are also looking to strengthen other areas of the squad. In goal, PSV Eindhoven goalkeeper Matej Kovar remains a player of interest, whilst in defence, the club are monitoring Lazio centre-back Mario Gila and Fiorentina full-back Dodo.
The club also faces important decisions regarding a large group of returning players. Noa Lang, Rafa Marin, Lorenzo Lucca, Michael Folorunsho, Jesper Lindstrom, Jens Cajuste, Cyril Ngonge, Luca Marianucci, Alessio Zerbin, Walid Cheddira, Filippo Rao, Hasa and Giuseppe Ambrosino are all expected to return to Castel Volturno following loan spells or temporary moves elsewhere.
Their futures will be discussed by Allegri, sporting director Giovanni Manna and De Laurentiis as Napoli seek to reshape the squad according to the coach’s tactical ideas. Several departures could generate significant transfer revenue, allowing the club to reinvest in players better suited to Allegri’s vision.
Whilst the legal situation with Milan remains unresolved, Napoli’s focus is firmly on the future. The objective is clear: to build a new look squad capable of competing immediately for the Serie A title and returning the club to the highest level of Italian football.
