Napoli has officially confirmed that defender Juan Jesus has sustained a thigh injury. The Brazilian center-back underwent medical examinations at the Pineta Grande Hospital, revealing damage to the semimembranosus muscle in his right thigh.

While the club’s statement did not specify a recovery timeline, this type of injury typically requires at least a month of rehabilitation. Given the nature of the injury, it is likely that Juan Jesus will miss the remainder of the season.

The 33-year-old defender has been a valuable asset for Napoli this season, making 17 appearances across all competitions and contributing one goal and one assist.

This injury setback comes at an inopportune time for Napoli, as they are already without Alessandro Buongiorno due to an adductor injury. As a result, manager Antonio Conte may need to rely on Rafa Marin to step up and make his first start for the team in their upcoming Serie A match against Monza.

Interestingly, Marin, who joined Napoli from Real Madrid last summer on a complex loan deal, has only played 23 minutes of Serie A football so far this season. The young defender will now have the opportunity to prove himself as Napoli navigates through this defensive crisis.