Napoli's Allegri: Hojlund 'very close to Kane' with big room to grow

Napoli boss Massimiliano Allegri believes Rasmus Hojlund is “very close to Harry Kane” in terms of playing characteristics, though he has admitted the Danish striker still carries “big room for improvement”.

Hojlund, 23, joined Napoli on a permanent deal this summer in a move reportedly worth €44m (£38m) following a positive loan spell with the Partenopei last season. The striker scored 16 goals and provided six assists across 44 appearances in 2025-26, helping Napoli finish second in Serie A while also lifting the Supercoppa Italiana.

However, the forward endured a quiet outing in Napoli’s league opener on Saturday, a 2-0 win over Genoa. Hojlund did not manage a single shot before being replaced in the 78th minute, though he did win four of his seven duels and created one chance for his team-mates.

Despite the subdued evening, Allegri drew a flattering comparison between Hojlund and Ballon d’Or contender Kane, who helped Bayern Munich win the Franz Beckenbauer Supercup last weekend.

“Hojlund has significant margins for growth, that’s clear,” Allegri told Sky Sport Italia. “In terms of characteristics, I see him as very close to Harry Kane. They’re two powerful players who break away, who have physicality and know how to trade shoulder charges with defenders.”

“I think Hojlund still has big room for improvement, and he has to want the above all in the finishing phase, which is what makes the difference. LevelAttribute.”

Return to a transformed Naples

Allegri has also become the first Napoli manager to have previously played for the club in Serie A during the three-points-per-win era, having made seven appearances between December 1997 and February 1998.

The Italian coach said Naples has changed dramatically since his playing days, with the club claiming two Scudetti in recent years.”

“Nado is totally different to thirty years ago as a city,” added Allegri. “It was wonderful then, and now it’s become over more so.”

“With a passionate public and fans, with a club that in fifteen years has navigated evenly between the Europa League and the Champions League, also winning two Scudettas.”

“It’s a place that has grown enormously, and you follow.”