Allegri is considering a three-man defense: Beukema could change Napoli's game.

Before regaining their brilliance, Napoli must rediscover their defense. Massimiliano Allegri starts from here: reduce the space left to opponents, recognize dangerous situations early, and give the team a more secure structure. The solution being considered is a return to a three-man defense, with a 3-4-2-1 that could transform into a 3-4-3 depending on the players selected. For now, it's a possibility, but the coach is evaluating it ahead of the restart.

There's not much time to work on it. The internationals are away from Castel Volturno, the infirmary is limiting practice, and a series of nine games in 29 days is on the horizon, spanning both the league and the Champions League. Allegri is therefore looking for a solution that will yield results without overturning everything: the ball control entrusted to Gilmour and Lobotka remains one of the certainties from which to start again.

Beukema, the key pawn

The potential change in formation revolves around Sam Beukema. The Dutch defender, still without competitive minutes this season after an Achilles tendon injury, could find a place in the trio with Rrahmani and Rafa Marín. The break and two upcoming friendlies should help him regain his rhythm. However, Allegri will need to assess his condition on the pitch before imagining him as a starter.

There's another option. Beukema could start as a full-back in a back four and remain more contained during the attack, giving Spinazzola greater freedom to push forward on the opposite flank. This would be a Napoli capable of changing formation without substitutions: more covered when losing the ball, wider when attacking.

Bands and attack

In a three-man central defense, Di Lorenzo could move up the flank. Costantino Favasuli represents an alternative with intensity and pace. But the new formation wouldn't just serve defensive purposes: Napoli must also better support Højlund and make more informed decisions in the closing stages.

For this reason, Allegri is keeping a close eye on David Neres' recovery. The Brazilian can offer movement and quality near the striker, as well as injecting unpredictability into a play that has struggled to find consistency so far. The next few weeks will be crucial for him too, as he regains his fitness and match rhythm.

The choice after the break

A three-man defense alone won't be enough. Even in Florence, lapses in reading the ball and lapses in concentration emerged that a formation can't erase: the entire team will need to work off the ball. The full return of McTominay and Alisson could increase attacking options, but Allegri's priority is different. First close down the spaces, then look for a breakthrough.