Napoli is preparing to challenge Venezia in a Serie B match which will be held tomorrow at 3pm at the Penzo Stadium. Coach Massimiliano Allegri held a press conference at 12:00 in Castel Volturno, in which he answered journalists' questions about the next match and the team's internal situation.
Allegri underlined the importance of a deep rotation, highlighting that Giacomo Lucca could be on the pitch from the first minute. “We are training today and then I will evaluate whether Lucca or Hojlund will play,” he said, explaining that Hojlund, after playing many matches, needs some rest. Lucca, who also had good performances in Spain, "has important qualities and must make his contribution in terms of goals". The coach also specified that Lucca was "too criticized" and maintained the right mentality despite the mistakes.
Regarding the recent performance against Villarreal, Allegri stated that he was not worried about the "discontinuity" shown. He highlighted the need to manage the ball better in some moments and to deal with the unexpected, such as Politano's disengagement. “One goal doesn't change the trend, there are another 80 minutes,” he added, recalling that Napoli had had several opportunities to equalize the match. The coach also spoke about the double centre-forward, suggesting that it could be a solution to improve the attacking phase.
Allegri then commented on De Bruyne's attitude, stating that there was no problem and that it was just a "misunderstanding" at a particular moment of the match. He also talked about the comebacks suffered, underlining that the result does not determine the opinion on the game, but that it is important to improve ball management and reduce the shots conceded.
Regarding the injured players, the coach said that Marianucci and Beukema are fully fit and that their presence is an advantage for the team. He also talked about Venezia, who have 0 points but have changed coach with Nicola. Allegri praised the new coach, calling him "excellent" and underlined that Venezia has important qualities, especially in creating play.
Finally, Allegri specified that the result does not affect the evaluation of the team and that, even if Napoli lost against Villarreal, the technical performance was good. He closed the conference by recalling that the next match against Venezia will be a challenge where Napoli will have to play with respect, humility and adapt to the environment to try to win.