Napoli is preparing to play the second group stage match of the 2026/27 Champions League against Villarreal, after the debut defeat against Arsenal. Coach Allegri defined the match as crucial to recover the points lost and to consolidate the position in the group, where the Neapolitan club has to deal with high-level teams.
Portuguese midfielder Renato Veiga, former Juventus player and now star of Submarino Amarillo, is at the center of attention. His role is fundamental for Villarreal: he is the player with the highest number of passes ever in La Liga and a key element both on the pitch and in the Portuguese national team, where he is a starter and shares the pitch with the young talent Inácio. His experience and visibility make him a point of reference for both the team and the national team.
During the summer, Napoli had already shown interest in Veiga. With the loss of several central defenders - Beukema, Marianucci and Buongiorno - Allegri had considered the Portuguese as a possible reinforcement. However, Villarreal's proposal of 40 million euros proved to be too high for the Neapolitan club, which decided not to proceed with the negotiation. The Naples company therefore turned its attention towards another option.
The Neapolitan club has opted for the young promise Benoît Badiashile, purchased with a loan formula with right of redemption. The expected cost for a possible definitive purchase is 30 million euros, a lower figure than that requested for Veiga. Badiashile represents a long-term investment for Napoli, with growth potential that fits the team's needs.
With the match against Villarreal scheduled, Napoli will have to demonstrate that they can compete at the highest European levels. The result of this match will influence the club's position in the group and its possibility of advancing to the group stage of the Champions League. Napoli, with the new acquisition of Badiashile and the presence of other talents, aims to consolidate its presence in high-level competitions, while Napoli will have to face Villarreal with determination and strategy to obtain the necessary points.