Napoli manager Max Allegri has called for his players to show more determination and ‘feel angry’ after their 1-1 Serie A draw against Fiorentina. Allegri also singled out forward Rasmus Hojlund, criticising him for ‘getting pig-headed’ during the match.
Allegri’s Post-Match Assessment
The Partenopei initially took the lead at the Stadio Artemio Franchi through a Billy Gilmour volley. However, Fiorentina equalised with a goal from Alex Jimenez, resulting in a shared point for both sides.
Speaking after the match, Allegri acknowledged a ‘good technical performance’ but stressed the need for greater determination in front of goal, both offensively and defensively. He emphasised that simply having possession is not enough, stating, ‘if we don’t leave the field angry today, then it means we’ve still got a very long way to go.’ Allegri insisted the team must create and convert more scoring opportunities.
The manager also highlighted a lack of focus, pointing to a late loss of possession that left the team unbalanced, costing them the chance to secure the win. Regarding Hojlund’s early substitution, Allegri explained that while the player ‘worked hard,’ he ‘got a bit pig-headed at points.’ The manager stressed the importance of working on the team’s limitations rather than assuming superiority over opponents.
Season Start Challenges
The draw leaves Napoli six points adrift of the Serie A leaders after five rounds of matches. This result follows their opening Champions League fixture, which saw them lose at home to Arsenal.
In other team news, midfielder Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa was substituted due to ‘groin discomfort,’ Allegri confirmed, adding to the challenges facing the squad early in the season.