Napoli have been dealt a significant blow as centre-back Alessandro Buongiorno is set to undergo surgery on his right knee for medial meniscus root repair, [La Gazzetta dello Sport](https://www.gazzetta.it/Calcio/Serie-A/Napoli/20-07-2026/napoli-buongiorno-si-opera-ecco-quanto-stara-fuori-sostituti-mercato.shtml) reports.
The decision was made following a specialist consultation in Barcelona with Professor Ramon Cugat, a renowned orthopedic surgeon. The club has confirmed in an official statement that the procedure will take place in the coming days, although a specific date has yet to be announced.
The choice of meniscus root repair rather than a simpler partial meniscectomy is motivated by the need to fully resolve Buongiorno's knee issues and preserve long-term joint health. However, this type of surgery requires a significantly longer rehabilitation period than a standard meniscus operation.
Buongiorno is expected to be sidelined for at least three months. In the most optimistic scenario, he could return to the pitch in late November, but he will certainly miss the first ten Serie A matchdays and the opening four Champions League group stage fixtures. The impression within the club is that the recovery timeline could prove even longer.
The 25-year-old Italian international has been a key figure in Antonio Conte's defensive setup since joining Napoli. His absence creates a major gap in the heart of the defense that the club must address in the summer transfer window.
Sporting director Giovanni Manna had already identified Mario Gila as a primary target, but the Spanish defender chose to join Milan instead. Napoli currently have Rrahmani, Beukema, Rafa Marin and Marianucci as defensive options, but another addition is considered necessary.
Several names are being evaluated as potential replacements. Federico Gatti of Juventus, Oumar Solet of Udinese, and Tiago Gabriel of Lecce are all under consideration. The Neapolitan club's management will work intensively in the coming weeks to secure a suitable reinforcement ahead of what promises to be a demanding season across Serie A and the Champions League.
Sources
- La Gazzetta dello Sport — Napoli, Buongiorno si opera: 3 mesi di stop: https://www.gazzetta.it/Calcio/Serie-A/Napoli/20-07-2026/napoli-buongiorno-si-opera-ecco-quanto-stara-fuori-sostituti-mercato.shtml
