Marin grows and leads but Napoli's defence concedes too many goals

Marin impresses as Napoli's defensive bright spot, but the team has squandered 10 points from winning positions with four comebacks conceded in 11 games.

Napoli's defensive vulnerabilities have become a critical issue this season. After Saturday's match against Roma, the team has conceded 17 goals in 11 games across all competitions and has lost 10 points from positions of advantage, suffering four comebacks: 0-2 to 3-2 against Inter at San Siro, 0-1 to 1-1 against Fiorentina, 0-1 to 3-1 against Villarreal in the Champions League, and 2-0 to 3-3 against Roma at the Maradona. This represents two defeats and two draws from those situations.

The defensive struggles are particularly notable given Allegri's historical reputation for solid defences. In 16 seasons managing in Serie A since 2008-09, he has never conceded this many goals in 11 matches. The contrast with last season is stark: while Napoli conceded the same number of goals in the equivalent period last year, they had won seven matches compared to just four this season.

On a positive note, Rafa Marin has emerged as the defence's standout performer. The Spanish defender has shown consistent growth throughout the season and delivered an impressive display against Roma, effectively neutralizing Malen. His development from an uncertain player who made his debut at Monza last April to a composed, focused defender represents a rare bright spot in Napoli's defensive struggles. With a midweek trip to Monza on October 28, the team must urgently rediscover their defensive solidity.