The deepening crisis continues for Napoli, which now finds itself 20 points off the top of the standings. One explanation for such negative results compared to initial expectations may have to do with the pressure generated by this expectation to repeat again this year the outstanding season completed last season and to easily regain the same team cohesion even with a new coach.
This way of thinking may have put a lot of pressure on Napoli and resulted in distrust in the players once they realized that the mechanisms of the previous season seemed to have disappeared. So this tendency to compare current performance with the previous season may have resulted in a perception of failure or disappointment.
To this must be added the expectations of the public and the media, who, following the championship victory, have increased their expectations of the team. The pressure to repeat the success, however, can become so intense and constant that, if not comforted by positive results, it is a cause of distrust in the team. Also, within the team itself, there may have been an increase in pressure. The players may have felt compelled to prove that the victory was not accidental and that they could confirm themselves as a top team.
It should also be kept in mind that success results in greater media exposure. The team becomes more visible and subject to greater media attention. This exposure may have added pressure as every step or achievement is analyzed and discussed publicly.
The coach and staff should carefully manage these forms of pressure, creating an environment that encourages confidence, reducing stress, and helping players maintain the mindset they need to meet the challenges of this new season. It may be that the team suffers from tactical problems but it certainly does not show that it is a united team in dealing with these difficulties.