Buongiorno on Napoli passion, decision to reject Juventus and Atalanta in 2024

NAPLES, ITALY – DECEMBER 08: Alessandro Buongiorno of Napoli during the Serie A match between Napoli and SS Lazio at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on December 08, 2024 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

Alessandro Buongiorno explains why he turned down approaches from Juventus and Atalanta, because he was won over by the ‘passion for football’ he feels at Napoli.

The Italy international made his mark at Torino, coming up through their youth academy to wear the captain’s armband.

He had several opportunities to leave the Granata before finally accepting the move to Napoli for €35m plus bonuses in the summer of 2024.

“The city is beautiful, joyful and passionate. You can feel the passion for football the moment you set foot on the street,” Buongiorno told La Stampa newspaper.

“When I walk out onto my terrace and look over the view, that panorama takes your breath away.”

Buongiorno rejected others before choosing Napoli

There had been other alternatives too for the centre-back, who had been linked with Atalanta as well as a move across the city to Torino’s bitter rivals Juventus, where he’d reunite with former Granata teammate Gleison Bremer.

“It’s true, there was interest from Juventus before Napoli stepped forward. I spoke to Juve, but I also spoke to myself. I couldn’t betray my history, as I was born and raised a Granata,” confessed Buongiorno.

“I explained that to Thiago Motta, who in my view is a great coach. When Atalanta stepped up, I had decided to remain at Toro after discussing it with my family and friends. However, when Juventus made the offer, I had already made that decision myself.”

How Conte convinced Buongiorno

It was Antonio Conte who finally convinced Buongiorno to cut the umbilical cord with Torino and try a new experience with Napoli.

“I ran into Conte entirely by accident, but something just clicked. I know, it is difficult to believe, but it’s true.

“Luciano Spalletti had given the Italy squad a day off before the Euros, so I went out to a restaurant in Turin and the waiter said ‘your new coach is over there.’

“It was no secret that Napoli wanted me, but it was the first time I had spoken to Conte. It’s all true, he really does get into your head with the way he works, the advice he gives, the motivation that he inspires.”