Napoli kick off preseason under Allegri as fan event is cancelled by flu

Massimiliano Allegri was unveiled as SSC Napoli’s new head coach on 14 July 2026. His first public appearance – a fan Q&A at the club’s Dimaro‑Folgarida preseason base – was cancelled after he developed flu symptoms, and he missed the team’s training session the same day.

Napoli’s pre‑season camp continues in Dimaro, where the squad will play its first friendly against Arezzo on 22 July. The team is training in a 4‑3‑4‑3 formation, with Stanislav Lobotka positioned as the central playmaker and Antonio Vergara given a mezzala role. Players such as Alisson Santos, Matteo Politano, Sam Beukema and Vergara have spoken to supporters, expressing ambitions to win the Serie A title and the Champions League.

Club president Aurelio De Laurentiis is meeting local authorities to discuss renewing the long‑standing partnership with the Val di Sole region, which has hosted Napoli’s summer camp for fifteen years. Transfer discussions include a pending signing of Equiel Zeballos from Boca Juniors, contingent on outgoing transfers.

Overall, Napoli’s preparations under Allegri focus on increased ball‑work, continuous dialogue between coach and players, and building cohesion ahead of the Serie A season.