Napoli, Allegri shakes up the team: De Bruyne pushes for a starting spot against Inter

Napoli are called upon to react. The home defeat against Como has set off the first alarm bells of the season, and Massimiliano Allegri seems intent on making changes to his starting eleven ahead of the away match against Inter.

The Italian coach identified one of the problems that emerged at the Maradona, especially in the defensive phase. "We were too light, we need to defend better," he explained after the defeat. A clear message to the team, now called upon to rediscover unity and intensity ahead of two top-level matches: first Inter, then Arsenal.

Among the possible additions is Kevin De Bruyne. The Belgian midfielder has already made his mark in his first few outings and could start at San Siro. Against Genoa, he brought quality to the play, while against Como, he came on in an attempt to change the momentum of the match. Allegri could use him as a central midfielder or in a more advanced position, capitalizing on his ability between the lines.

Frank Anguissa, still struggling to regain his fitness, is particularly at risk. The Cameroonian hasn't shown the same brilliance as last season, and his performances are also weighing on the team's balance. Against Inter, a match that could require great intensity and management skills, Napoli could therefore rely more on De Bruyne's technical ability.

Changes are also possible on the left flank. Noa Lang remains in contention, but Alisson Santos is gaining ground thanks to his pace and man-marking ability. The Brazilian could be a powerful force in attacking the depth and putting pressure on the Nerazzurri's defense.

Leonardo Spinazzola could find space behind him. The winger isn't yet at his peak, but he's shown encouraging signs and could provide more thrust down the flank than Olivera has in recent performances.

Allegri will also have to evaluate his attacking options. Vergara remained on the bench for the entire match against Como, while the coach selected Neres to increase his finishing quality. These choices could also impact the pecking order in upcoming matches.

Napoli, in short, is already facing a delicate moment in the season. The defeat against Como can't be erased, but the response against Inter will say a lot about the Azzurri's ability to quickly correct their weaknesses. At San Siro, personality, intensity, and balance will be crucial: Allegri is looking for his team's first real leap in quality.