Michele Pazienza, former Napoli midfielder, interviewed Radio Tutto Napoli after the defeat at home against Villarreal, highlighting the importance of learning to react to difficulties on the pitch. According to Pazienza, Napoli must develop a more solid mental attitude to overcome the obstacles that arise during matches. “When Napoli manage to react correctly in difficult moments, they will make that leap in quality that they lack today,” he said, underlining that the team is still under construction and that coach Allegri will work on this aspect daily.
Regarding the defensive structure, Pazienza stated that the three-man defense can be advantageous in the long term, but that the current problems do not depend exclusively on the playing system. “It's clear that it needs to be worked on and improved, but I don't think the problems of the last match are linked to the defense system,” he explained.
In addressing Kevin DeBruyne's possible demotion, Pazienza recalled a personal experience in which a player was moved into an unfamiliar role. The footballer, initially perplexed, then appreciated the advantages of the new position. “A lot depends on how the player experiences the request,” he said. “If DeBruyne doesn't respond positively, Allegri probably won't insist and will try to make the most of his characteristics.”
Napoli, still in the consolidation phase, will therefore have to work on reactivity, mentality and tactical adaptation to improve results in the next matches.