Massimiliano Allegri is not seeking redemption at Napoli, despite lingering concerns from his second tenure with AC Milan.
Allegri was dismissed by Milan in May after the club’s ownership marked the season as “a clear failure.” The 58-year-old joined Napoli at the start of July on a three-year deal.
Last season, Allegri’s Milan team frequently occupied one of the top two spots while contending for the Serie A title. However, two wins in the final eight matches resulted in a fifth-place finish and missing out on the lucrative Champions League.
“This isn’t about redemption; sometimes seasons conclude like this. I’m disappointed with last season’s outcome,” Allegri stated during his first press conference as Napoli’s coach. “We stayed in the top three from Matchday 2 until 37, only dropping out on the first and last matchdays, with the last one being the decisive one.”
He emphasized, “I’m disheartened, as this is the first time in my coaching career—whether at Juventus or Milan—that I’ve finished outside the top four. It’s definitely weighed on me.”
Taking over from Antonio Conte at Napoli presents a challenge, as Conte left the club in May after securing first and second place in the league during his two-year tenure.
Previously, Allegri succeeded Conte as Juventus coach in 2014 after Conte led Juventus to three Serie A titles, and subsequently, Allegri clinched five consecutive titles, four Italian Cup wins, and reached two Champions League finals.
“I am taking over a squad that is certainly used to hard work,” Allegri remarked regarding Napoli. “Conte has proven himself throughout his career. I’m fortunate, as this is the second time I’m stepping into a team he built—let’s hope it’s a good sign.”
“It’s crucial to work with seriousness and professionalism, laying the groundwork to be competitive through March, as that’s when seasons are typically decided—in all our objectives: Serie A, the Champions League, and the Italian Cup.”
After Allegri’s departure, Milan appointed Ruben Amorim as his replacement. During Amorim’s introduction, team owner Gerry Cardinale noted that the new coach focuses on winning rather than merely avoiding loss.
Allegri responded, “I will not comment on the ownership’s statements. I can only express gratitude to those who supported me throughout the season. It’s unfortunate we missed our goals.”
“A new year begins, exciting to experience. We have three competitions ahead, and we start off with great enthusiasm.”
Allegri and Napoli will kick off their 2026-27 Serie A campaign away against Genoa.