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The defender struggled with knee pain towards the end of last season, and new scans have led to the decision for surgery.

After helping Napoli win the Serie A title in 2024-2025, Buongiorno played a more prominent role under Antonio Conte, who has since left his role as coach, last season.

The 27 year-old played 33 Serie A games last season as Napoli finished second, 11 points behind champion Inter.

"Alessandro Buongiorno underwent a specialist medical consultation in Barcelona today, which revealed the need for surgery to repair the root of the medial meniscus in his right knee," a Napoli statement read.

"The Italian defender will undergo surgery in the coming days."

Buongiorno could face several months on the sidelines, meaning Napoli could enter the market for a central defender.

Massimiliano Allegri's side will begin its Serie A campaign on 22 August against Genoa, which is followed by  fixtures against Como and Inter.