NAPLES – "Inter have the Scudetto on their chest and, as is logical, are the favorites.". Massimiliano Allegri indicates the Nerazzurri as the main reference in the race for the title on the eve of the debut of the Napoli in Serie A, scheduled for tomorrow at 8.45pm at Marassi against Genoa.
In his press conference to present the first day of the championship, the Italian coach significantly expanded the list of teams that will be able to compete at the top of the table.
«"This year, however, will be a great and exciting championship, with eight teams—Inter, Juventus, Milan, Napoli, Roma, Como, Fiorentina, and Atalanta—that could provide an interesting battle, especially for the top spots.".
Allegri: "I'm curious to see Napoli in Genoa."«
After a month of work at the helm of the Azzurri, Allegri is now awaiting the first results of an official match.
«"I've been in charge of the team for a month and I'm curious to see what we'll do in Genoa, a very difficult match against a team that plays excellent games at home, both competitively and technically.".
My debut on the Napoli bench also represents a special moment on a personal level.
«"It's always exciting to start a new year and to do it in such an important and passionate place as Naples. I'm really looking forward to the first matchday.".
So, don't underestimate the challenge at Marassi. "Tomorrow we'll have to play a very serious match," warns the coach.
«"We need balance between the league and the Champions League."»
For Napoli the season also marks the return to the stage of Champions League, a competition that will start in a few weeks and will require careful energy management.
«"It will take balance," Allegri explained, "also because the Champions League starts in 15 days, and that's another objective, a wonderful competition to play in. Therefore, we need to work as hard as we can to ensure the team is competitive in every match.".
The goal is to build a Napoli capable of maintaining continuity between the league and Europe, managing a season that promises to be particularly challenging.
Allegri on the transfer market: "The squad is excellent."«
The technician also addresses the issue of transfer market, while the company continues to work to complete its workforce.
«"The squad I have at my disposal is excellent, and the club is keeping a close eye on the transfer market. But right now, there are some very good players within the squad.".
Allegri also urges players not to automatically consider every potential new signing superior to the players already present: "Sometimes people think that those outside are better than those inside, but that's not always the case.".
Words that confirm the confidence in the group built to face the new season.
«Seriousness, commitment and enthusiasm»
Allegri finally states what he expects from himself in his new experience on the Azzurri bench.
«"I ask the most important thing of myself: professionalism, commitment, and enthusiasm in a club that has been consistently in the Champions League and Europa League for 15 years, with very high results.".
The first test will therefore come tomorrow evening at Marassi. Allegri awaits this debut with curiosity, but also with an awareness of the difficulties Genoa will face in front of their home fans.
