Allegri Officially Takes Over Napoli: First Press Conference, Honest Thoughts on Milan and Plans for the Season

Massimiliano Allegri has officially started his tenure as Napoli head coach. The 58-year-old held his first press conference on Thursday, making it clear he does not see this new chapter as an act of redemption despite the disappointing end to his Milan spell. Allegri was dismissed by Milan in May after club owners labeled the season's finish a clear failure. The Rossoneri had spent most of the campaign inside the top two, but a disastrous run — only two wins in their last eight games — saw them drop to fifth and miss out on Champions League revenue. “I’m disappointed with how things turned out. From matchday 2 to 37 we were in the top three; we only dropped out in the first and last rounds, and the last one is what counts,” the coach said. He admitted it was the first time in his coaching career — spanning Juventus and Milan — that he finished outside the top four. “I won’t deny that weighed on me,” Allegri added. When asked about Milan owner Gerry Cardinale’s comment at the unveiling of new coach Ruben Amorim — that he had hired a coach who plays to win, not to avoid losing — Allegri stayed diplomatic, thanking everyone and declining to comment. At Napoli, Allegri again takes over from Antonio Conte, mirroring the 2014 switch at Juventus that led to five consecutive Serie A titles, four Coppa Italia trophies, and two Champions League finals. “I inherit a team that is used to hard work. Conte has proved his value throughout his career. I’m lucky — this is actually the second time I inherit a team from Antonio. Let’s hope it’s a good omen,” he said. Looking ahead, Allegri stressed the importance of pacing across the long season. “We have to work seriously and professionally, and above all lay the foundation to reach March — when seasons are decided — still fighting for all our goals: Serie A, the Champions League, and the Coppa Italia,” he summed up. Napoli’s new era under Allegri begins soon: they open the 2026/27 Serie A campaign away to Genoa.