Benoit Badiashile has yet to make a significant impact at Napoli after joining on loan from Chelsea this summer. Having only featured for ten minutes, the Italian club is now weighing up whether to activate the €27 million option to buy the defender.
His sole appearance came against Inter, where he subbed on for just ten minutes while Napoli led 2-0. However, the Milan side pulled level, and Badiashile’s brief display failed to convince manager Massimiliano Allegri, who had hoped to rely on the newcomer more frequently.
Despite his struggles, observers in Italy are not writing off the 25-year-old just yet. After limited opportunities at Chelsea last season, he may simply need more time to regain his match fitness and confidence.
Adding to Badiashile's challenge is the impressive form of Rafa Marin, who more closely resembles the injured Alessandro Buongiorno's style and currently seems to be the preferred option in central defence. Badiashile, meanwhile, has shown greater strength when it comes to ball distribution.
As it stands, Allegri isn’t in a rush to alter his defensive pairing. Badiashile still has opportunities ahead to earn valuable game time and prove his worth to the squad.
Napoli secured Badiashile on loan towards the end of the summer transfer window, with the option to purchase for €27 million. If the defender’s situation doesn’t change throughout the season, the club may decide against exercising this option, leading to his return to Chelsea.
