Max Allegri’s first match in charge of Napoli ended in a 3-1 defeat to Arezzo in a pre-season friendly held in Dimaro Folgarida on Tuesday. Goals from Cerri and Gilli put Arezzo ahead, with Politano scoring for Napoli before Eklu sealed the victory for the newly promoted Serie B side.
This marks the second consecutive year Arezzo has defeated Napoli in their opening pre-season fixture, having won 2-0 last year under then-manager Walter Conte. The match served as an early test for Allegri as he assesses his squad ahead of the upcoming Serie A campaign.
Allegri utilized a rotating squad, giving playing time to all available players. He experimented with Rrahmani and Rafa Marin as a central defensive pairing, with both Buongiorno and Beukema unavailable, and Olivera still on holiday following his participation in the World Cup. Youngster Giovane, deployed on the right wing, and Prisco, a 2008-born regista, both showed promise during their appearances.
Defensively, Napoli were caught exposed on the left side during Arezzo’s opening goal, allowing Cerri a free header from a Sala cross. The third goal resulted from a misplaced pass intercepted in midfield, leading to Eklu’s close-range finish. Allegri is still awaiting the return of players who participated in the World Cup and is hoping for further additions to the squad during the transfer window. The club is currently focused on player sales but recognizes the need to strengthen the team before the season begins. Lucca, who had a good impact off the bench, was forced off with an ankle injury. Rao, a player reportedly attracting interest from Palermo and Pisa, also featured.
The result is unlikely to cause immediate concern, as it was a friendly match intended to assess players and tactical options. However, it provides Allegri with an early indication of areas needing improvement as he begins his tenure with the club.
