Benítez hopes Napoli climb the table, a wish that sums up our October
Napoli's former coach sent his greetings from the Ballon d'Or red carpet in London. What he wished for shows how far expectations have fallen before the trip to Monza.
Rafa Benítez sent a message to Napoli on the evening of Monday 26 October, speaking to television crews as he arrived at the Ballon d'Or 2026 ceremony in London. "I have Napoli in my heart, and I send my greetings to all the fans," he said. Then came the line that stuck: "I hope the team climbs back up the table. Come on Napoli, always, and I hope they will win again."
On social media, fans quickly responded with nostalgia and thanks. Benítez won the Coppa Italia (Italy's cup competition) and the Supercoppa (the Italian Super Cup) at Napoli, and he is remembered for his international outlook and the top players he brought to the club. The affection is sincere, and we should return it. But look closely at what he wished for. A former coach is hoping Napoli "climb back". Two league titles in three seasons on, people who care about this club from the outside see a side that needs lifting. That is an accurate picture: Napoli are tenth with 11 points after eight matches, their worst start since 2009-10.
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Monza v Napoli kicks off at 20:45 CET (19:45 UK, 15:45 ET) on Wednesday 28 October at the U-Power Stadium. Landucci will be on the bench in place of the suspended Allegri. Climbing the table takes three points, not good wishes.
Source: AreaNapoli
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