Napoli will challenge the two-match touchline ban handed to Massimiliano Allegri after his dismissal during Saturday’s 3-3 draw with Roma, a decision that leaves the coach set to miss two significant away fixtures.
The decision
Serie A’s disciplinary ruling carries a €10,000 fine as well as a two-game suspension for Allegri. The punishment relates to his conduct at the end of the Roma match and afterwards in the dressing-room area.
The league cited an insulting remark made to match officials in the 45th minute of the second half, followed by what it described as a seriously disrespectful comment once inside the stadium. Allegri was also accused of taking an aggressive attitude towards a Roma representative.
Napoli have requested access to the disciplinary file and confirmed that they will lodge an appeal against the suspension.
The episode followed Leonardo Balerdi’s 89th-minute goal, which secured Roma a 3-3 draw. Allegri protested that Sam Beukema had been fouled in the build-up, but referee Andrea Colombo checked the incident through VAR and allowed the goal to stand. The Napoli coach’s protests then brought a red card.
After the match, Allegri disputed the basis for his dismissal. “The fourth official called the referee and got me sent off, but I did not say anything at all,” he said.
Sunday’s picture
Unless Napoli’s appeal changes the outcome, Allegri will be absent for Wednesday’s trip to Monza and Sunday’s away meeting with Juventus. It is an awkward interruption for Napoli after a breathless afternoon against Roma, when a late equaliser turned a potential victory into a point and brought the coach’s dispute with the officials into the centre of the week.
