Sacchi makes McTominay admission but warns Napoli about ‘real danger’

NAPLES, ITALY – APRIL 27: Scott McTominay of Napoli celebrates after scoring his sides first goal during the Serie A match between Napoli and Torino at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on April 27, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

Arrigo Sacchi admits he didn’t expect Scott McTominay to be ‘this good’ but warns that a ‘complacency syndrome’ will be the real danger for Napoli in 2025-26.

Napoli will be aiming to win their second consecutive Serie A title for the first time in history this season and have already made several new signings, including Kevin De Bruyne on a free transfer.

Many see the Partenopei as the natural favourites to see the Scudetto, and Sacchi certainly feels the same.

“But there’s one condition,” the former coach warned in an interview with Gazzetta.

Sacchi sends warning to Napoli for 2025-26 season

“The whole environment must not lose the enthusiasm it had last season, continuing to support the group even in difficult times, because there will be.

“The complacency syndrome or, even worse, the sign of arrogance, could be the real danger, but I believe Conte knows how to handle the situation, given his experience.

“Napoli play as a team, everyone moves together, and they know exactly what to do in defence and attack. You don’t see many teams like that in Italy,” Sacchi continued.

Sacchi didn’t expect McTominay to be ‘this good’

“Conte can also rely on standout individuals who can change the outcome of a game.

“They don’t concede goals or concede very few. Their focus on the defensive phase is incredible, which means Conte has done a fantastic job teaching his players what they need to do. I like the way they press and also how midfielders join the striker in finalising the attacks. Did you expect McTominay to be this good? Honestly, I didn’t.

“De Bruyne was phenomenal under Guardiola, and he’ll be very important at Napoli as well.”

Napoli didn’t participate in any European competition last season, but will be one of the contenders for the 2025-26 Champions.

“European matches drain a lot of physical and mental energy. Inevitably, you end up dropping points in the league. It’s the nature of things,” Sacchi concluded.

“I think Conte and his players are mainly focused on the league because Napoli are not yet on the same level as the top European clubs. However, European competitions can be a valuable training ground to build self-confidence, so games must be played with maximum focus.”