Napoli are facing a significant defensive crisis ahead of the new Serie A campaign after confirming that defender Alessandro Buongiorno has undergone knee surgery. The centre-back travelled to Lyon for the procedure and is expected to miss between two and three months. The club also revealed that striker Lorenzo Lucca sustained an ankle injury during a pre-season friendly against Arezzo, adding to their fitness concerns ahead of the new season.
Buongiorno Faces Lengthy Rehabilitation
Buongiorno underwent an operation to repair the root of the medial meniscus in his right knee at the Jean Mermoz private hospital in Lyon. Napoli stated that surgeons have assured the club the procedure was a complete success.
The defender must now undergo a period of immobilisation before he can begin his rehabilitation programme. With an expected recovery timeline of two to three months, he will miss the opening phase of the Serie A season. The absence represents a significant blow to Napoli’s defensive resources as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
Lucca Injury Interrupts Pre-Season
Meanwhile, Lucca sustained a low-grade strain of the anterior talofibular ligament in his ankle during the recent pre-season friendly defeat to Arezzo. The forward only recently returned to the club after spending the last six months on loan at Nottingham Forest in the Premier League, and was forced to limp off during the encounter.
According to Sky Sport Italia, the striker should be absent for a couple of weeks as he undergoes treatment and recovery. The timing is particularly unfortunate for the player, who is seeking to establish himself in the first team following his return from England. His absence will limit the club’s attacking options during the remaining pre-season schedule.
Injury Crisis Deepens
These setbacks add to Napoli’s ongoing fitness concerns. The club endured numerous injury problems throughout the previous season, and this summer appears to be following a similar pattern. The loss of Buongiorno for an extended period and Lucca’s shorter-term absence will test the squad depth before competitive action resumes.
The medical team will now focus on ensuring both players return to full fitness without risking further complications. For Buongiorno, the priority is completing his rehabilitation programme successfully following the Lyon surgery, while Lucca will receive treatment to resolve the ankle ligament issue ahead of his anticipated return within approximately a fortnight.