Allegri tackles Napoli midfield challenge as De Bruyne suffers injury

Napoli head coach Massimiliano Allegri says he intends to field a four‑midfielder quartet of Kevin De Bruyne, Scott McTominay, Chiellini Anguissa and Tomasz Lobotka, a configuration that former manager Antonio Conte could not make work. Allegri believes the quality of the players can overcome any tactical scheme.

During Belgium’s recent friendly against Spain, De Bruyne was forced to leave the field in the 85th minute with a muscle injury, according to Belgian coach Rudi Garcia. The injury, together with other absences, contributed to Belgium’s defeat and has raised concerns for Napoli’s midfield plans, as De Bruyne is a key figure for both club and country.

Allegri’s ambition to blend the four midfielders could reshape Napoli’s playmaking if De Bruyne recovers, while the injury highlights the immediate impact on Belgium’s national side and the club’s upcoming season.