Napoli concluded their summer training camp in Castel di Sangro with a 6-2 victory over Aris Salonicco on August 12, 2026, according to field reports from Vincenzo D’Angelo. The match, which served as the final preseason test before a Serie A opener against Genoa, featured standout performances from Lorenzo Lucca and Kevin De Bruyne, both of whom scored twice.
Tactical Flexibility and Match Flow
Manager Max Allegri deployed three different tactical systems during the fixture, transitioning smoothly from an initial 4-3-3 to a 4-2-3-1 and eventually an offensive 3-4-2-1 structure. Rrahmani opened the scoring for Napoli at the 19th minute with a long-range strike. Aris Salonicco responded in the 31st minute when Racic converted a free-kick into the top corner. Just before halftime, Alisson drove down the right flank and fed Scott McTominay, who scored with his left foot to put Napoli ahead 2-1.
Pro Tip: Monitoring tactical flexibility in preseason friendlies provides early indicators of how managers plan to handle squad rotation during grueling domestic campaigns.
De Bruyne and Lucca Lead the Second Half
The introduction of Kevin De Bruyne at the start of the second half shifted the momentum decisively. Operating behind the striker in the 4-2-3-1 setup, De Bruyne scored his first goal following an assist by Politano. Lorenzo Lucca added a third with a well-executed turn inside the penalty area. Racic managed a second goal for the visitors with a shot at the near post to make it 5-2, but De Bruyne capped the scoring late in the match by converting an assist from Giovane.
Squad Updates and Injury Report
The lone setback for Napoli involved midfielder Vergara, who was forced off after just 27 minutes on the pitch due to a recurrence of a left tibia contusion, according to team reports. Medical staff indicated the issue does not appear severe, though evaluations will continue. Meanwhile, Billy Gilmour earned a start in midfield alongside André-Frank Zambo Anguissa and McTominay, logging valuable minutes before being substituted at halftime.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Napoli’s first official Serie A match of the season?
Napoli travels to face Genoa at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at 20:45.
Who scored in the preseason friendly against Aris Salonicco?
Rrahmani, McTominay, Lucca (two), and De Bruyne (two) scored for Napoli, while Racic netted a brace for Aris Salonicco.
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