Napoli’s Buongiorno heads to Barcelona as Gatti, Solet linger
Napoli’s centre‑back Alessandro Buongiorno travelled to Barcelona on Thursday, where the defender will be examined by orthopaedic specialist Professor Ramon Cugat as the club weighs his knee’s fate while transfer rumours link Juventus’ Federico Gatti and Udinese’s Oumar Solet to the Partenopei.
Corriere dello Sport, citing TuttoMercatoWeb, reported that the centre‑back will undergo a medical assessment in Barcelona. The report confirms the involvement of Professor Ramon Cugat, a recognised expert in orthopaedic surgery. Napoli’s medical staff will receive the specialist’s findings. The report also notes Buongiorno featured in Napoli’s Serie A clash against SS Lazio on December 8, 2024.
Professor Ramon Cugat is regarded as one of the world’s leading authorities in traumatology and orthopaedic surgery. He will examine Buongiorno’s right knee to establish the exact nature of the injury. The specialist’s reputation adds weight to the forthcoming verdict.
The focus of the examination is a tendon problem that has required additional investigation. Doctors have not yet determined whether the issue can be managed conservatively. The outcome of the assessment will dictate Buongiorno’s recovery path.
Two routes are on the table: continuation of conservative treatment or immediate surgery. A surgical option would entail a longer rehabilitation period than non‑operative care. Napoli will decide based on the specialist’s recommendation.
Napoli are waiting for the verdict to design the defender’s clinical programme and plan his return to the pitch. The club’s schedule hinges on the timeline provided by the medical report. A clear decision will allow the coaching staff to adjust training plans.
Buongiorno’s injury forced him to miss the team’s Dimaro training camp. It also reopened Napoli’s transfer considerations, with head coach Massimiliano Allegri tasking Giovanni Manna to scout alternatives. Names mentioned include Lecce’s Tiago Gabriel, Juventus’ Federico Gatti and Udinese’s Oumar Solet.
The final medical opinion may influence how urgently Napoli pursue a new centre‑back. Should surgery be required, the Partenopei may need to act quickly in the market. The club’s strategic planning now hinges on the Barcelona consultation.