Allegri Explains Napoli Changes for Villarreal Champions League Match

Napoli coach Max Allegri explained his lineup decisions before the Champions League trip to Villarreal at Estadio de la Ceramica, where the match was scheduled for 20.00 UK time. The Italian side entered the game seeking points after a 1-0 defeat to Arsenal.

According to livescore.com, Allegri selected Scott McTominay for his first start after surgery on September 8 to correct a mild benign arrhythmia. The report also said Napoli made changes after a 3-0 Serie A win over Frosinone.

Allegri said the return of fresh players influenced his choices, with McTominay and Billy Gilmour entering the lineup while several injured players remained unavailable.

"Giovane came on well, Spinazzola used up a lot of energy on Saturday, so we decided to get some fresh legs with McTominay and Gilmour. We hope it goes well, we’ll see if the result goes well too," said Allegri, Napoli coach.

According to livescore.com, Frank Anguissa, Mathias Olivera, Antonio Vergara, Alisson Santos, Costantino Favasuli and Alessandro Buongiorno were still out injured. Giovane was added to the UEFA squad list in place of Favasuli and moved into the starting lineup.

Allegri also discussed Napoli’s need to collect points during the remaining Champions League matches after the opening loss to Arsenal.

"It’s normal that for an important match we need to get points, but it is also very difficult. There are seven games left to get the points we need to go through, it would be good to start that tonight, even if we are up against a strong opponent," said Allegri, Napoli coach.

The Napoli manager highlighted Giovane’s versatility and the availability of David Neres after a long injury absence. He also noted that Noa Lang had used significant energy in the previous match.

"Giovane can play close to Hojlund, he can be wider. We have David Neres coming back from a long time out injured, Noa Lang used up energy too on Saturday. Giovane is doing well and he deserves this opportunity," said Allegri, Napoli coach.

Villarreal arrived after a 3-2 Champions League opening defeat away to Borussia Dortmund and a 1-0 LaLiga loss to Real Madrid, according to livescore.com. Goalkeeper Peter Gulacsi withdrew from the squad after his home was targeted in an armed robbery with his family present.