Allegri explains surprising Napoli choices for Villarreal challenge

Napoli manager Max Allegri explained his unexpected squad selections ahead of their Champions League match against Villarreal at the Estadio de la Ceramica. Allegri opted to bring in fresh legs, handing starts to Scott McTominay, Billy Gilmour, and Brazilian attacker Giovane. Napoli entered the fixture looking to recover after suffering a 1-0 defeat to Arsenal in their European opener.

The lineup changes come as McTominay makes his first start since undergoing heart surgery on September 8 to treat a mild arrhythmia. Additionally, Giovane was added to Napoli's UEFA squad list and given his Champions League debut due to multiple injuries. For Villarreal, goalkeeper Peter Gulacsi withdrew following an armed robbery at his home the previous night.