New Napoli manager Max Allegri has been forced to cancel his first scheduled engagement with supporters at the club’s pre-season training camp after developing flu symptoms. The former Juventus and Milan boss was due to stage a question and answer session with fans in Dimaro on Tuesday evening, but the event was called off as the illness took hold.
Allegri was also absent from Tuesday’s training drills, leaving his assistant to direct the squad through their exercises. The 56-year-old is expected to return to the touchline on Wednesday, provided his condition does not worsen.
Recent unveiling
The setback comes shortly after Allegri’s official unveiling as Napoli coach. He was presented to media and VIP guests at a formal event in Naples alongside club president Aurelio De Laurentiis, held at the historic Teatro San Carlo. Tuesday’s cancelled appearance was intended to offer Allegri his first opportunity to address the wider supporter base directly from the team’s summer base.
The squad are currently working through their pre-season programme in Dimaro, with Allegri implementing a 4-3-3 tactical system ahead of the new campaign.
Friendly fixture
Allegri’s absence creates a minor disruption with Napoli due to face Arezzo in a friendly match on Wednesday evening. While his assistant has taken temporary charge of sessions, the club anticipates the head coach will be fit to resume duties and potentially take his place on the sidelines for the fixture.
The Partenopei will hope their manager’s return is swift, as they continue preparations for the forthcoming Serie A season under new leadership.