Alessandro Buongiorno explains why he turned down approaches from Juventus and Atalanta, as a result of he was gained over by the ‘ardour for soccer’ he feels at Napoli.
The Italy worldwide made his mark at Torino, developing via their youth academy to put on the captain’s armband.
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He had a number of alternatives to go away the Granata earlier than lastly accepting the transfer to Napoli for €35m plus bonuses in the summertime of 2024.
“The town is gorgeous, joyful and passionate. You may really feel the eagerness for soccer the second you set foot on the road,”
“Once I stroll out onto my terrace and look over the view, that panorama takes your breath away.”
Buongiorno rejected others earlier than selecting Napoli
ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 15: Giacomo Raspadori of Napoli celebrates scoring his staff’s first objective with teammate Alessandro Buongiorno in the course of the Serie A match between SS Lazio and Napoli at Stadio Olimpico on February 15, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photograph by Paolo Bruno/Getty Photos)
There had been different alternate options too for the centre-back, who had been linked with Atalanta in addition to , the place he’d reunite with former Granata teammate Gleison Bremer.
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“It’s true, there was curiosity from Juventus earlier than Napoli stepped ahead. I spoke to Juve, however I additionally spoke to myself. I couldn’t betray my historical past, as I used to be born and raised a Granata,” confessed Buongiorno.
“I defined that to Thiago Motta, who in my opinion is a superb coach. When Atalanta stepped up, I had determined to stay at Toro after discussing it with my household and mates. Nevertheless, when Juventus made the supply, I had already made that call myself.”
How Conte satisfied Buongiorno
LECCE, ITALY – MAY 03: Giacomo Raspadori of Napoli celebrates with their teammates after scoring his staff’s opening objective in the course of the Serie A match between Lecce and Napoli at Stadio Through del Mare on Could 03, 2025 in Lecce, Italy. (Photograph by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Photos)
It was to chop the umbilical wire with Torino and check out a brand new expertise with Napoli.
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“I bumped into Conte solely accidentally, however one thing simply clicked. I do know, it’s tough to consider, however it’s true.
“Luciano Spalletti had given the Italy squad a day without work earlier than the Euros, so I went out to a restaurant in Turin and the waiter mentioned ‘your new coach is over there.’
“It was no secret that Napoli wished me, however it was the primary time I had spoken to Conte. It’s all true, he actually does get into your head with the way in which he works, the recommendation he offers, the motivation that he evokes.”