Official Buongiorno’s Barcelona surgery casts long shadow over Napoli

Alessandro Buongiorno, the 27‑year‑old Italy international, was seen battling for possession with Roberto Piccoli in a Serie A clash in Naples on 31 January, only to have Napoli confirm he will undergo delicate meniscus‑root surgery in Barcelona, sidelining him for several months.

A photo captioned NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31 captures Buongiorno battling for possession with Roberto Piccoli of ACF Fiorentina. The image was taken by Francesco Pecoraro and published by Getty Images.

SSC Napoli’s official statement says the operation will address the root of the medial meniscus in his right knee. The club added that the procedure is scheduled in Barcelona in the coming days.

Buongiorno struggled with knee problems toward the end of the previous season and initially pursued conservative treatment. Those efforts proved insufficient, prompting further medical evaluation.

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During pre‑season fitness tests, medical staff concluded a specialist consultation was required. Consequently, the player was referred to a Barcelona specialist for definitive assessment.

Sky Sport Italia reported the injury as serious, projecting a two‑ to three‑month absence. The exact duration remains uncertain, but the operation is described as delicate for the 27‑year‑old international.

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Napoli acquired Buongiorno from Torino in the summer of 2024 for €36.5 million plus add‑ons. The defender’s injury now arrives at a time when the club had invested heavily in his acquisition.

The juxtaposition of his recent on‑field involvement and the looming months of rehabilitation underscores the unpredictable nature of player health. Napoli must now navigate his absence while evaluating the impact on their defensive plans.