Napoli Face Venezia as Allegri Weighs Changes to His Forward Line
Napoli travel to the Stadio Pier Luigi Penzo to meet Venezia in a Serie A fixture shaped by fresh questions on both sides. Venezia have recently changed managers, appointing Davide Nicola, while Napoli arrive with several players returning to training and others still working toward full fitness. Ahead of the match, Napoli coach Massimiliano Allegri discussed his squad, possible lineup changes and the communication mix-up involving Kevin De Bruyne.
The team news could influence Napoli’s approach to a challenging away game. Allegri confirmed that Frank Anguissa, Alisson and Mathías Olivera have rejoined full training and are available for selection. However, David Neres has suffered another injury setback, while young players Vergara and Favasuli are making progress but remain some distance from returning.
Napoli Injury Update: Returning Players and Fitness Concerns
Napoli’s squad is gradually recovering, but availability does not automatically mean every returning player is ready to start. Anguissa, Alisson and Olivera have resumed work with the group, giving Allegri more options as he considers his team for the trip to Venice. Their return may be particularly useful in a match where Napoli could need both control in midfield and defensive flexibility.
Neres, by contrast, is unavailable after picking up another injury. Allegri expressed disappointment at losing the winger again, especially as Napoli look to maintain attacking depth across a demanding run of fixtures. His absence may place extra responsibility on the players available in wide areas, and could affect how Napoli create chances if Venezia defend in a compact shape.
Vergara and Favasuli are also progressing, although Allegri cautioned that neither is close to a return. Their development is encouraging, but the coach appears unwilling to rush them before they are ready. That measured approach is important during a long season, when managing recovery can be as significant as preparing for the next match.
Allegri also noted that Scott McTominay and other players who have missed several games need to rebuild match fitness through minutes on the pitch. Training can help restore sharpness, but competitive football brings different physical demands. Napoli will need to balance the value of getting players back into rhythm against the risk of asking too much of them too quickly.
Allegri Dismisses De Bruyne Misunderstanding
Allegri was asked whether he had become frustrated with some of De Bruyne’s expressive reactions during matches. The Napoli manager rejected the suggestion, describing the incident as a brief misunderstanding rather than an ongoing issue between player and coach.
According to Allegri, the confusion happened during a particular moment in a game and was resolved quickly. The language barrier played a part: the coach said they were speaking different languages, with one using English and the other Italian. He added that De Bruyne understood the situation and that such exchanges can happen in football, where decisions and instructions must often be communicated under pressure.
The response suggests Napoli are focused on keeping communication clear rather than allowing a minor on-field exchange to become a distraction. De Bruyne’s creativity and experience make him an important figure in the side, and effective understanding between the midfielder and coaching staff could be crucial as Napoli look to control games and create opportunities.
Could Lucca Start Against Venezia?
One of the main selection questions concerns Lorenzo Lucca. Allegri stopped short of confirming whether the striker will start, saying he would make his decision after the final training session. Rasmus Højlund has played a heavy schedule, so a spell on the bench could give him valuable rest while opening the door for Lucca.
Allegri praised Lucca’s contribution after he came on in Spain, pointing to his movement and the chances he managed to find. The coach also highlighted the forward’s physical qualities and his potential to provide goals. His comments offered a clear defence of a player who, in Allegri’s view, has received more criticism than his performances warrant.
That backing may matter if Lucca is given a prominent role. Strikers are often judged primarily by goals, but their movement, ability to occupy defenders and work away from the ball can also shape a team’s attacking play. Against a Venezia side adjusting to a new manager, Lucca’s size and presence could give Napoli a different route forward, particularly if the hosts defend deep or try to limit space between the lines.
A Two-Striker Option
Allegri also said that starting Lucca and Højlund together could be a valid tactical option. The pairing would allow Højlund to operate in a supporting role rather than constantly playing with his back to goal. Allegri noted that the Danish forward had looked effective in a second-striker position recently, including when he found himself in a promising attacking situation.
Using two centre-forwards would represent a different approach from relying on a single striker, but it could provide Napoli with more presence in the penalty area. The formation would also require balance from the midfield and wide players, who would need to supply service and help prevent Venezia from exploiting space during transitions. Whether Allegri chooses that option may depend on the condition of his players and the tactical challenge posed by Nicola’s side.
Marianucci and Beukema Available Again
Napoli have further defensive options after Allegri confirmed that both Marianucci and Beukema have fully recovered. Marianucci had been sidelined for two months, while Beukema missed pre-season preparations. The coach said both are now in good condition and can be relied upon.
Their availability gives Napoli additional depth at the back, an important advantage during a busy schedule. Even if neither player starts immediately, having fit defenders available can help Allegri manage minutes and respond to changes during the match. It may also reduce the pressure on players who have carried a heavy workload in recent weeks.
Venezia Match Prediction: What Napoli Must Get Right
Any football prediction for Napoli’s visit to Venezia must account for the uncertainty that can follow a managerial change. Nicola’s appointment may bring renewed energy and a different tactical plan, making the home side difficult to assess. Playing at the Penzo also presents a distinct challenge, with Napoli needing to stay composed and avoid giving Venezia opportunities to build momentum.
Napoli’s chances will depend on how effectively they manage the opening stages, use their returning players and turn possession into clear chances. Allegri’s choice between Lucca and Højlund—and the possibility of fielding both—could be decisive. With injury concerns still present but several players back in contention, Napoli have options, although their final lineup will depend on fitness and the coach’s assessment after training.
The match is scheduled for 17 October 2026, with kick-off listed for 21:00. For Napoli, it is an opportunity to navigate a tricky away fixture while continuing to restore depth across the squad. For Venezia, the new-manager factor offers the possibility of a fresh start. The result may come down to which team adapts fastest to the demands of the contest.
