Allegri sent off after furious reaction to Napoli’s late equaliser against Roma

Massimiliano Allegri insists he did nothing to warrant a red card during Napoli’s dramatic 3-3 draw with Roma, but the manager’s angry reaction after being dismissed could lead to a longer suspension.

Allegri was sent off on the touchline moments after Leonardo Balerdi’s equaliser was awarded following a video assistant referee review. The goal made it 3-3 after referee Andrea Colombo confirmed the decision.

Napoli had argued that Balerdi fouled Sam Beukema during the move leading to the goal. Although there was contact between the two players, it occurred some time before the ball entered the net.

Beukema initially got to his feet and continued to take part in the attack. He fell again and held his ribs only after the goal had been scored.

Davide Bernardi, the DAZN touchline reporter, said Allegri told fourth official Juan Luca Sacchi: “If you do not disallow this goal…”

The VAR review ended without Colombo being called to the pitch-side monitor. Allegri then began to move away from the technical area, but Sacchi drew the referee’s attention to the Napoli manager.

Colombo subsequently showed Allegri a straight red card.

“What did I say? Tell me what I said? No, no!” Allegri shouted, according to Bernardi’s account.

The 59-year-old removed his jacket and appeared ready to throw it, although he kept hold of it, unlike on previous occasions. He then walked away from the touchline in anger before turning back towards the pitch and the fourth official.

Members of Napoli’s coaching staff attempted to restrain him and prevent him from moving further towards Sacchi.

The sending-off means Allegri will miss Napoli’s next match against Monza, scheduled for the middle of the week. The fixture is listed for 28 October 2026, with Monza hosting Napoli.

However, the reaction that followed the dismissal could result in a suspension lasting more than one match.

The other relevant midweek Serie A fixture listed is Roma against Cagliari on 27 October 2026.

Napoli’s draw with Roma ended with both sides sharing six goals, but the final equaliser became the focus of the closing stages after the dispute over Balerdi’s challenge and Allegri’s dismissal.