Napoli face fresh injury crisis as Marianucci absence hampers defence | OneFootball

Napoli’s defensive problems have deepened, with Luca Marianucci becoming the third centre-back Massimiliano Allegri has lost this summer.

According to the club, the defender suffered a high-grade tear of the medial collateral ligament in his left knee during the pre-season friendly against Celta Vigo, having been forced off in visible pain.

He faces around two months on the sidelines, ruling him out until after the September international break.

COBHAM, ENGLAND – JANUARY 20: Benoit Badiashile of Chelsea looks on during a Chelsea FC Training Session at Chelsea Training Ground on January 20, 2026 in Cobham, England. (Photo by Jasper Wax/Getty Images)

Badiashile pursuit now a priority for Napoli

It is a significant blow given the state of the rest of the department. Alessandro Buongiorno remains out until January following knee surgery, while Sam Beukema is only slowly recovering from a chronic Achilles problem and may not be fit for the opening weeks.

That leaves Allegri dangerously light heading into the opener against Genoa, with Amir Rrahmani and Rafa Marín the only fit recognised central defenders, plus Mathías Olivera as cover.

The injuries have made reinforcing the backline urgent. Napoli continue to push for Chelsea’s Benoît Badiashile, though the clubs remain apart on the formula, the Blues seeking a permanent sale, the Partenopei preferring a loan.