Massimiliano Allegri inches closer to Juventus return as Napoli's Sarri interest fades
Massimiliano Allegri edges closer to a return to Juventus as Napoli’s interest in Maurizio Sarri fades, while Luka Modrić fuels speculation over his future under the Italian coach.
Juventus president John Elkann confirms Luciano Spalletti’s central role in the club’s two-year rebuilding project, but reports suggest the door remains open for Allegri to reclaim the bench—especially if Napoli opt for a different path. According to *La Gazzetta dello Sport*, Sarri has "taken time" to consider the Napoli job, while Allegri’s name has resurfaced as a leading candidate for the *Partenopei* should they pivot away from the former Chelsea manager . Allegri, currently unattached after leaving Juventus in 2024, is also linked with AC Milan, though no formal offers have materialized.
The speculation gains weight as Luka Modrić, recovering from a cheekbone fracture, publicly backs Allegri’s methods. "I’m ready [to return], but obviously Allegri decides," the 39-year-old told *SportMediaset*, adding that a "feeling" exists between them—a rare endorsement from a player who has thrived under multiple high-profile coaches . Modrić’s comments arrive as Juventus prepare for a summer overhaul, with Elkann demanding reinforcements across all positions to restore competitiveness, including a marquee striker and a new goalkeeper .
Allegri’s potential return would mark a dramatic reversal for a coach whose second Juventus stint ended amid fan protests and tactical disputes. His final match in charge—a 2-1 defeat to Cagliari in May 2024—triggered widespread calls for his dismissal, though Elkann has since emphasized the need for "foundational values" reminiscent of the club’s 1996 Champions League-winning era . Meanwhile, former Juventus midfielder Arturo Vidal paid tribute to Allegri’s legacy by naming his new dog "Pirlo," a nod to the playmaker who defined the club’s most successful period under the coach .
With Juventus finishing sixth in Serie A this season—missing out on European competition for the first time in a decade—Elkann’s urgency is palpable. The club’s sporting director, Fabio Paratici, has been tasked with identifying targets, though Allegri’s potential availability could reshape their transfer strategy. For now, the 56-year-old remains in limbo, with Napoli’s next move likely to dictate his future. Should the *Azzurri* pursue Sarri or another candidate, Allegri’s path back to Turin could clear by June.
> Background: **Allegri nears Milan move as Juventus and Atalanta reshape squads.** — *18 hours ago*

