Massimiliano Allegri saw his severely weakened side fall to a disappointing two-goal exhibition reverse against second-tier opponents at Castel Volturno. Goals from Michael Venturi and Luca Di Maggio punished the Partenopei, who were crippled by international call-ups and an extensive injury list during an unconvincing warm-up encounter on Friday.
Napoli have been handed a significant boost as Scott McTominay has officially returned to the training pitch following his recent cardiac procedure. The Scotland international is stepping up his recovery after a health scare that briefly sidelined him from Massimiliano Allegri’s squad.
Belgium forward Mika Godts paid glowing tribute to Kevin De Bruyne following the playmaker's masterclass in their impressive 2-0 Nations League victory over Italy in Rome. The Paris Saint-Germain attacker opened the scoring at the Stadio Olimpico before highlighting the midfielder's creative brilliance in guiding Mark van Bommel's men to all three points.
Italy defender Giovanni Di Lorenzo has jumped to the defence of the Azzurri's tactical approach following a disappointing 2-0 defeat to Belgium in the Nations League. Despite being jeered by their own supporters in Rome, the Napoli captain insisted the squad showed the necessary commitment and followed the manager's instructions.
Baish
