Vergara injury for Italy means Napoli lose talent for 3-4 weeks

Antonio Vergara has been diagnosed with a calf strain after his first start for Italy, so Napoli are expected to lose him for three to four weeks.

The winger had impressed on his debut off the bench in a 1-1 draw in France, then in the starting XI for last night’s 3-1 victory over Turkiye.

He limped off in the second half and was seen clutching his right calf muscle, so it was hoped that he was simply suffering from cramp.

Vergara injury verdict for Napoli

BOLOGNA – OCTOBER 05: Aral Simsir of Turkiye is challenged by Antonio Vergara of Italy during the UEFA Nations League 2026/27 group phase match between Italy and Türkiye at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on October 05, 2026 in Bologna. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

However, Vergara returned to base and underwent tests today at the Pineta Grande Hospital which confirmed a medium-grade lesion to the right soleus muscle.

According to Sky Sport Italia, this diagnosis will see the Italian ruled out for three to four weeks.

It is another blow for Napoli coach Max Allegri, who is already missing several players through injury.

GENOA, ITALY – AUGUST 22: Antonio Vergara of Napoli celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on August 22, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)

There was some good news today, as Giovane, Leonardo Spinazzola and goalkeeper Alex Meret all returned to full training with their teammates.

Scott McTominay will have his tests with the CONI authorities tomorrow to decide whether he can return to full training after heart surgery to resolve a mild cardiac arrhythmia last month.