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Tactical disputes, injuries, and internal tensions at Napoli

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2026-11-02 08:04 UTC → 2026-11-07 10:57 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Tactical ~~disputes~~ disputes, injuries, and ~~injury setbacks~~ internal tensions at Napoli

Kevin De Bruyne has experienced a resurgence in form at Napoli following a difficult period, despite reported dissatisfaction with manager Massimiliano Allegri’s decision to transition him into a deeper midfield role. While De Bruyne has delivered impactful performances, including a brace against Frosinone, tensions previously escalated following a defeat against Villarreal due to tactical disagreements regarding his positioning. Following a 4-3 UEFA Champions League victory over FK Bodo/Glimt, Allegri has continued to evaluate tactical shifts. Although the manager believes De Bruyne may enjoy a deeper playmaker role within a 4-3-3 formation or a midfield diamond, the Belgian international has expressed that he is “not particularly fond of the role.” The club is currently weighing whether to maintain this setup or return to previous hierarchies, such as utilizing Lobotka in the deep-lying position, ahead of a match against Roma. Recent developments have introduced significant injury ~~concerns.~~ concerns and internal friction. During a 2-0 defeat against Juventus, De Bruyne sustained an ankle sprain that forced a halftime substitution. Assistant coach Marco Landucci confirmed the injury, which may impact De Bruyne’s availability for upcoming Champions League fixtures against FC Porto and Belgium’s Nations League matches. This setback coincides with other squad losses, including captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo and a multi-week injury to Stanislav Lobotka. ~~Amidst these shifts, De Bruyne’s long-term future remains uncertain,~~ Internal tensions have also surfaced, with reports ~~suggesting~~ of an argument between De Bruyne and Lorenzo Lucca during a Champions League match against Porto. While Napoli ~~may~~ has decided not ~~exercise~~ to issue formal disciplinary sanctions to avoid escalating squad divisions, the ~~final year of~~ locker room remains reportedly strained. Regarding his ~~contract, potentially opening the door for interest from San Diego FC.~~ long-term future, uncertainty persists.

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