Massimiliano Allegri’s tenure at Napoli began on a challenging note, as the Partenopei suffered a 3-1 loss to Arezzo in their first pre-season match.

As per TuttoMercatoWeb, Allegri deployed a formidable lineup including Alex Meret, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Amir Rrahmani, Frank Anguissa, and Rasmus Hojlund, but it was Arezzo who stood out.

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Cerri put Arezzo ahead with a header in the 11th minute, and Gilli extended the lead just before the hour mark. Although Matteo Politano scored from the penalty spot in the 60th minute, Mavulli struck again late in the match, securing a decisive victory for Arezzo. Napoli appeared to struggle with their fitness levels throughout the contest.

NAPLES, ITALY – AUGUST 30: Lorenzo Lucca of SSC Napoli during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on August 30, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

Lucca Injury Raises Concerns for Napoli’s Transfer Strategy

The situation grew more concerning as Lorenzo Lucca had to leave the pitch in the 85th minute. Napoli confirmed he sustained a sprained right ankle, and his condition will be evaluated in the upcoming days to determine the extent of the injury.

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This injury carries potential implications for transfer dealings. Napoli officials are currently not overly concerned but seek rapid clarity: if Lucca’s absence is brief, it will not hinder negotiations, but a significant layoff could complicate matters, especially with Fiorentina eyeing potential attacking options.

Fiorentina Secures Narrow Win Over Gubbio

In contrast, Fiorentina began their pre-season successfully, earning a 1-0 victory against Gubbio in their first friendly of the summer.

Albert Gudmundsson scored from a first-half penalty, awarded after new signing Arthur Atta was fouled. Oulaì made his debut after the break, and the right-side duo of Dodo and Fortini showcased impressive chemistry, even as Moise Kean missed several scoring opportunities.