Matt Rizzetta, founder of Underdog Global Partners and president of Campobasso, has revealed a plan B for the future of the Neapolitan club in case the negotiation with Napoli does not materialize. According to an interview with Sportico, Underdog is evaluating the purchase of two Italian clubs – Juve Stabia, currently in Serie B, or Real Aversa 1925, which plays in Serie D – with the aim of transforming them into a Serie A team and competing directly with the Azzurri.
The project, which involves an investment of around 100 million euros, would include the restructuring of infrastructure, the development of a youth sector and the implementation of charitable initiatives for the local community. The group also intends to rename the acquired company using the brand of a previous Neapolitan football team, already recovered by Underdog earlier this year. “Our goal is to create a team that can compete in Serie A and that is a real point of reference for the city,” explained Rizzetta, without however providing specific details on the name or structure of the new club.
The reason for this alternative strategy arises from the difficulties encountered in the negotiations for Napoli. Underdog began negotiations with the Italian club at the end of 2025 and, although talks are still ongoing, Rizzetta said he was "confident" about the agreement. However, he expressed his willingness not to allow the process to extend beyond 2027, so that alternative options could be assessed if necessary. After a meeting with Aurelio De Laurentiis, which was reported in the Italian press about a week ago, the Napoli president strongly rejected the idea that the club was for sale. Rizzetta underlined that Napoli remains the "logical choice", in line with a broader project which involves the creation of a multi-sport giant including Napoli basketball, volleyball and other disciplines.
At the moment no comments have been provided by the clubs involved, Juve Stabia and Real Aversa 1925, nor by Napoli. However, Underdog's plan could represent a significant turning point for Neapolitan football, offering a concrete alternative should the negotiation with the Italian club fail. The next phase will depend on the evolution of the negotiations with Napoli and on the strategic decisions of Underdog Global Partners. If the project were to proceed, Serie A could see a new Neapolitan team ready to compete with the city's historic clubs.