Lazzari tells Allegri: “He makes each player feel important and knows how to adapt”

The wait around the possible arrival of Massimiliano Allegri on the Napoli bench is reviving analyzes and testimonies. Andrea Lazzari, who played under Allegri at Cagliari, spoke on the subject in an interview with Radio Tutto Napoli.

The former midfielder does not perceive a break in the technician's character, but rather a progression: “I don't see him changed, rather evolved. He has always had a great ability to involve all members of the squad and, with experience, he has further improved his reading of matches. Even then, he managed to correct important details during the meeting. »

On the recurring debate between beautiful play and results, Lazzari recalls the realities on the ground: “As a coach, we always want to win by playing beautiful football, but it is not that simple. There are opponents, moods, and many other variables that we cannot control. Sometimes you have to bring back the result without necessarily shining. »

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The human aspect of Allegri particularly marked Lazzari: “He took great care of personal relationships. He knew when to joke and when to be serious. He made every player feel like they were part of the project. Today, in an increasingly complex football, I think this quality is essential and he is very strong in building these links. »

Lazzari also brushes aside the label of coach trapped in a single playing pattern: “At Cagliari, we played in 4-3-1-2, but it often changed depending on the characteristics of the players. He knows how to adapt and make the most of what he has available. When there is harmony between management, staff and the team, the work is simpler. This applies in football as elsewhere. »

Finally, the former player remembers with a smile Lavezzi's famous “pallonata” on Allegri: “He was smart not to react. He understood the moment and there were no consequences. »

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