Napoli's nightmare start deepens: worst run since 2009-10 piles pressure on Max Allegri

While off the pitch Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis was batting away questions about the club’s ownership, on the pitch the Partenopei were enduring a torrid opening to the season in mid-October 2026, with mounting pressure on coach Max Allegri.

Allegri’s position under scrutiny

Napoli’s failure to beat struggling Venezia, as reported on 18 October 2026, intensified pressure on Allegri, with reports saying the coach’s next two matches — against Bodø/Glimt and Roma — could determine his short-term future. Igor Tudor and Vincenzo Italiano were mentioned as possible successors, though no change was confirmed.

The Venezia setback followed two consecutive defeats in all competitions, deepening concern around the club’s form.

De Bruyne questioned after penalty miss

In prior coverage dated 19 October 2026, a Sky journalist questioned Kevin De Bruyne’s commitment to Napoli after a penalty miss, pointing to “a worn-out group, a string of injuries,” discontent among players with expiring contracts, questionable coaching decisions and what was described as “the Lucca flop.” The same report noted that De Laurentiis had remained silent, suggesting that could reflect a desire not to repeat the errors of the 2023-24 campaign, when Napoli changed coaches three times and finished 10th a season after winning the title.

At that point Napoli had taken 10 points from seven games — their worst start since Roberto Donadoni’s side in 2009-10. They were due to host Bodø/Glimt on Tuesday before welcoming Roma on Saturday.