Napoli have cancelled Max Allegri’s pre-match press conference just 10 minutes before it was due to begin, adding to the pressure surrounding the club ahead of Sunday’s Serie A meeting with Lazio on 8 November.
The decision was reportedly made on the instruction of Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis, according to Sky Sport Italia.
Allegri took charge of Napoli in the summer after replacing Antonio Conte, who led the club to the Scudetto. However, the veteran Italian manager has struggled to produce similar results during his early months in the role.
Napoli are currently 10th in Serie A, with 14 points from their opening 10 matches. Reports in Italy have suggested Allegri’s position at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona is under serious threat.
The cancellation of his media appearance came shortly after Napoli suffered a heavy defeat in Europe. They were beaten 4-1 by Porto in the Champions League, with the club now preparing to face league leaders Lazio just days later.
The decision not to hold the press conference further highlights the uncertainty surrounding Napoli as they attempt to respond to their poor domestic form and their Champions League setback.