Allegri Dubbio De Bruyne doubts as McTominay lags before Napoli‑Roma

Allegri Dubbio De Bruyne doubts over the midfield role and McTominay’s continued absence were highlighted as Napoli prepare for the important marquee fixture of Serie A’s eighth round on Saturday 24 October at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.

Champions League boost and recent form

Allegri, whose full name is Massimiliano Allegri, recalled the recent victory over Bodo/Glimt that revived Napoli’s Champions League campaign and lifted pressure from his bench. The win, he said, gave the squad belief ahead of the upcoming test. It also demonstrated the tactical flexibility he hopes to exploit against Gasperini’s Roma.

Napoli entered the eighth round after three matches that yielded two wins and a draw, before a slip at Venezia cost them momentum. The side now sits in the upper half of the table, chasing the top‑spot that Roma currently threatens. Allegri stressed that the Roma game is a chance to regain the trajectory.

Line‑up doubts and injury updates

Allegri outlined several formation doubts, beginning with whether Kevin De Bruyne can operate as a regista. He praised De Bruyne’s ability to play in front of the defence or in a double pivot, noting he had already tried a similar role at Frosinone. Allegri also highlighted BRUYNE’s vision as a decisive factor. Lobotka and Gilmour also feature, with Lobotka having featured in many games since the start of the year, including for the national side.

The coach also addressed the injury list. Rrahmani arrived at the press conference febrile, and his fitness will be assessed on the day. McTominay remains out after two months, despite scoring two goals for Napoli, and Anguissa, who logged 60 minutes in his last appearance, is under review. Vergara may sit on the bench, while Badiashile, after three consecutive games, continues his recovery.

When asked about the stakes, Allegri replied, “VALE tanto, it is an important game, always a Napoli‑Roma encounter.” He added that Roma qualified for the Champions League last season and sit close to first place, making the clash especially challenging. The manager warned that the result will influence the campaign, even though it is not the season‑ending decider.

Allegri identified the biggest problem as the team’s behaviour when out of possession, especially in their own half. He called for greater continuity through a series of positive results, saying “CON” consistency is essential to climb the table. He warned that GLI midfielders need to press higher when the ball is lost. He praised Gasperini’s side for its enthusiasm and technical quality, noting the difficulty of the upcoming battle.

In attack, Hojlund has earned national team call‑ups, scoring two goals in four to five appearances and featuring regularly for Napoli. Allegri praised his composure, insisting the team must keep scoring regardless of individual tallies. Young forward Lucca also received praise for his qualities and the support he enjoys from the club.

The coach concluded that morale follows results; a win will lift spirits and allow calm preparation for the next fixtures, including a match against Monza three days later. He admitted the squad has been fortunate to face two similarly styled opponents in quick succession, which aids preparation. Allegri believes the upcoming clash will test Napoli’s resilience and could shape their push for the top.