De Bruyne Ready for Opener as Allegri Outlines Napoli Title Stance
Speaking in comments made to press on Friday, head coach Massimiliano Allegri evaluated his squad’s preparation ahead of SSC Napoli’s opening 2026-27 Serie A fixture against Genoa at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris.
In his first pre-match briefing since taking charge, Allegri addressed tactical adaptability, player fitness levels following recent tournament duty, and the administrative status of incoming transfers ahead of Saturday’s fixture.
Benoit Badiashile
playerMassimiliano Allegri Previews Genoa Opener and Praises Kevin De Bruyne Fitness
Asked about squad readiness and the condition of midfielder Kevin De Bruyne following his return from international duty, Allegri highlighted the player’s rapid integration into team training sessions.
“He arrived later on, but he’s already in good shape. I didn’t think he’d already be at this level after ten days. Big players can play everywhere; they know how to play there and can find the best position.”
De Bruyne’s immediate availability provides midfield options as Napoli navigate a congested opening stretch. Allegri noted that the tactical setup builds directly upon the foundation established by former manager Antonio Conte, allowing the team to switch systems seamlessly during matches.
Kevin De Bruyne
playerMassimiliano Allegri Outlines Transfer Status for Benoît Badiashile and Title Outlook
Addressing active transfer business, Allegri clarified the situation surrounding Chelsea defender Benoît Badiashile, who underwent medical evaluations on Thursday, alongside the integration of new signing Costantino Favasuli and returning loanees Lorenzo Lucca and Noa Lang.
“Favasuli is a young player, and he’s arrived with great enthusiasm. The other one [Badiashile] is still not registered. I’ll have a week to look at him and give a proper judgment. He was here, but didn’t train.”
With Badiashile missing Friday’s tactical session prior to registration approval, defensive selections for the opening fixture rely on the existing core squad. Allegri framed the broader campaign around multi-competition demands, identifying defending champions Inter Milan as primary title favourites within an expanded eight-club group competing at the top of the table.
In comments reported by TuttoNapoli.