Despite growing pressure amid inconsistent results, Massimiliano Allegri is confident Napoli's Champions League fate is in their own hands.
Allegri: Napoli's Champions League fate in our own hands
Napoli have won just one of their three Champions League matches so far, but Massimiliano Allegri is not worried about their form.
Napoli lost their opening two matches of their European campaign – going down to Arsenal and Villarreal – though they prevailed in a seven-goal thriller against Bodo/Glimt last time out.
Heading into the halfway point of the league phase, Napoli currently sit 22nd in the table, inside the play-off places on goal difference.
Napoli are now looking for back-to-back Champions League wins for the first time since March 2023 (two, both v Eintracht Frankfurt).
But Allegri is not yet worried about their European form, insisting that their destiny will still be in their own control no matter the result against Porto on Wednesday.
"There are some small details missing that allow us to get results," Allegri told Sky Sport Italia when asked what was missing from his side's performances.
"This inconsistent performance we're having in the league is proof of that. In the Champions League, we lost the first two and then won at home against Bodo/Glimt.
"But I believe that in the Champions League, regardless of [the Porto] match, our fate will be in our hands against Manchester City, because with 10 points, we can qualify for the play-offs, and that would be a great achievement.
"We need to try to play [on Wednesday], prepare for the match against Lazio, and then spend the break trying to recover as many players as possible to try to rotate them."
Napoli were on a three-game unbeaten streak in all competitions, which started with the 4-3 win over Bodo, but that came to a halt against Juventus on Sunday.
They are seeking a much-needed confidence boost, though it could prove difficult; Porto are unbeaten in six when hosting Serie A opposition in European competition, winning four of them (D2).
Porto have won each of their last 10 league games, but they have struggled at home in the Champions League, losing both such matches so far.
"The game is difficult because Porto have won 10 in a row in the league, and they've played some good games in the Champions League too," Allegri added in his press conference.
"As for us, talking is of little use; we need to put in a good performance.
"Right now, it's time to act, not to talk. It's not an easy moment. We've had mixed results and haven't yet managed to win two league games in a row.
"But what's certain is that we have to keep working and try to turn things around in the league. In the meantime, we're thinking about [Wednesday]; there's a game to play."
Napoli could receive a late double injury boost. Rasmus Hojlund has had the flu, while Kevin De Bruyne, who has created 10 chances from open play in the Champions League this season, has an ankle injury.
But Allegri is hopeful they could play some part against Porto.
"Hojlund's fever has gone. De Bruyne will train, and afterwards we'll see if he's available," Allegri said of the duo.
