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MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 18: Massimiliano Allegri, Head Coach of AC Milan, looks on prior to the Serie A match between AC Milan and Como 1907 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 18, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Massimiliano Allegri has spoken of his personal disappointment at Italy’s World Cup elimination while calling on football’s governing bodies to address the structural problems holding back the country’s young talent, ahead of Monday’s blockbuster Serie A clash with Napoli at the Maradona.
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The Milan head coach was in a positive mood as his squad trained in front of a enthusiastic group of supporters, acknowledging that the players had earned genuine goodwill from the fanbase through their performances this season.
“We are very happy that the fans came out today, because they won’t be with us in Naples,” he said, via TuttoMercatoWeb.
“I think this year the players have earned the respect and esteem of the supporters through their commitment and determination in matches.”
Milan boss Allegri: ‘We must help young players develop better’
On the World Cup, Allegri was measured but sincere. “I don’t know why we didn’t qualify, what I do know is that as an Italian I am very disappointed,” he said.
“From this situation, the relevant authorities must thoroughly examine solutions that can help young players develop into good footballers.”
It is a sentiment that echoes the broader chorus of concern from across Italian football in recent days, and notable coming from one of the country’s most prominent and successful coaches.
On more immediate matters, Allegri confirmed that Ruben Loftus-Cheek has returned to full fitness, with Matteo Gabbia the only absentee, the defender expected back on Tuesday.
The prospect of facing a Napoli side that has recovered its key players was greeted with respect rather than concern.
“Napoli are a strong team, especially now that they have everyone available,” Allegri said. “It will be a wonderful match and we will need a great team performance.”
