Napoli are poised to appoint Vincenzo Italiano as their new manager, according to reports emerging from Italy on Monday evening. The decision follows a period of consideration, initially leaning towards Massimiliano Allegri, but a shift in sentiment after Milan’s defeat to Cagliari appears to have altered club president Aurelio De Laurentiis’s thinking.
De Laurentiis had reportedly identified Allegri as his preferred candidate as recently as Sunday evening, even potentially before Milan’s final Serie A match of the season. However, the Milan loss prompted a reevaluation within the club, with social media also displaying a largely negative reaction to the potential appointment of Allegri. This led to a reconsideration of other options, including Italiano.
Napoli then scheduled a meeting with Italiano’s representatives in Rome on Tuesday, May 26th, which lasted for a significant period. While the discussions were described as preliminary, they indicated a clear shift in direction, with De Laurentiis reportedly impressed by Italiano’s tactical approach and the success he’s had implementing a proactive style of play. Italiano has won five times at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona as manager of Fiorentina, Bologna, and Spezia.
This represents a potential ideological shift for Napoli, moving away from Allegri’s more pragmatic approach towards Italiano’s preference for a 4-3-3 formation – a system historically associated with Napoli’s successful periods. While club officials maintain there is “no rush” to finalize the appointment, this is believed to be a tactic to manage information. De Laurentiis is scheduled to depart for Los Angeles on Friday, June 5th, but the deal could be concluded either before his departure or remotely. Italiano is currently the clear frontrunner, with Allegri now considered to be trailing in the race.
Italiano has established himself as a highly-regarded coach in Serie A, most recently with Fiorentina. He guided the club to European competition, implementing an attractive and effective style of football. The appointment would signal Napoli’s intention to rebuild with a manager who prioritizes attacking football and player development.
