Napoli are in genuine trouble. Seven points from five Serie A games represents the club's worst start in ten years, as reported after the Fiorentina draw, and the pressure on Massimiliano Allegri is growing with each dropped point. The 1-1 at the Artemio Franchi summed up the team's problems: capable of scoring but unable to hold a lead, lacking the consistency and defensive solidity that title contenders demand. Only seven goals scored in those five matches is a figure not seen in over two decades, and it points to a squad that has not yet found its identity under its new manager.

The injury list makes the task harder. Alessandro Buongiorno, signed to anchor the defence, remains sidelined after summer knee surgery and faces a long road back. Frank Anguissa suffered a muscle injury in Florence, ruling him out during the international break. Against that, Scott McTominay has returned to training at Castelvolturno following a cardiac procedure, offering a genuine lift to a squad that needs bodies and confidence.

The break gives Allegri time to act. Reports suggest a tactical formation change is coming, with the manager expected to reshape how the team lines up when Serie A resumes. David Neres showed encouraging signs at Fiorentina after months out injured, adding another option. Napoli host Frosinone on October 10 in a match that feels like a must-win if they are to stop the slide.