Buongiorno Discusses Napoli Move and Atalanta Refusal

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The Cult of Calcio

·29 November 2024

Buongiorno Discusses Napoli Move and Atalanta Refusal

It’s a particular week for Alessandro Buongiorno, who’s about to face Torino, the team where he spent the entirety of his career before joining Napoli. He talked about it and more on the Cronache di Spogliatoio podcast (via Goal).

“I’ve had 17/18 great years with the Granata. It’s a very important part of my life. I recall that, when I returned from a loan from Trapani, I was used as a sparring partner for the starters and the backups. Something clicked inside of me at that point, and I began playing without overthinking. I was feeling the pressure. I’ve grown a lot during my time with them, acquiring personality and becoming cleaner in tackling, avoiding yellow cards.”

Buongiorno dished on his transfer to Napoli.

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“I met Antonio Conte by chance at a restaurant one day. We talked for 10/15 minutes and stayed in touch. I eventually said yes. My integration into the team was fantastic. I felt very comfortable in the city and with my teammates right away. They are excellent lads and strong players.”

Buongiorno could have moved to Atalanta the year before.

“It happened in the final days of the 2023 summer window. The negotiation between clubs was very advanced, but I wasn’t feeling it at that point. I knew I could have given Torino and myself something more by staying put. I explained it to president Urbano Cairo, who understood it, and we decided to continue together. It’s never easy to make a call, but I tend to forge ahead with no regrets. I had spoken with Gian Piero Gasperini, and La Dea had made me a good impression.”