Napoli: Cameroon international Zambo Anguissa weighs next move after tough season

André-Frank Zambo Anguissa’s future at Napoli is facing renewed uncertainty after an injury-disrupted campaign raised questions over whether the Cameroon international could seek a new challenge in the next transfer window.

The 30-year-old midfielder, whose contract with the Italian club runs until June 2027, endured a prolonged spell on the sidelines this season, missing nearly three months of action.

A hamstring injury sustained in November, followed by back problems, kept him out of several key fixtures in Serie A, the Champions League and the Italian Cup, while also ruling him out of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

It marks the first significant interruption since he joined Napoli during the 2021–22 season, initially arriving on loan from Fulham before making the move permanent.

Until this campaign, Zambo Anguissa had been a consistent presence in midfield, earning the trust of successive coaches and establishing himself as a central figure in the squad.

Napoli felt his absence. Without the Cameroonian, the club failed to progress beyond the group stage of the Champions League, although domestically they remain competitive, sitting second in Serie A, nine points behind leaders Inter Milan with six matches left to play.

His return to action came on 6 March in a 2-1 victory over Torino, and since then head coach Antonio Conte has gradually reintegrated him into the team, even handing him a full 90 minutes in the 1-0 win over AC Milan on 6 April.

The signs of recovery have been encouraging, but the interruption has inevitably raised questions about his long-term trajectory.

Former Cameroon international Bernard Tchoutang believes the midfielder’s absence had a noticeable impact on both club and country.

“A three-month absence is a long time, and it takes time to recover. But Zambo Anguissa is very professional, a powerful player, and he’s getting back to his best. His absence was detrimental to Napoli and the national team, because we know how important he is on the pitch.”

Despite the setbacks, Zambo Anguissa has still contributed four goals and two assists this season, a return that underlines his influence given he missed 22 matches in all competitions.

His versatility remains one of his defining attributes, capable of contributing in both defensive and attacking phases.

Tchoutang drew comparisons with one of Cameroon’s most iconic midfielders as he highlighted the player’s all-round qualities.

“He’s a box-to-box player, who reminds me of the late Marc-Vivien Foé. He can do a lot of things: defend, attack, score, pass. Since he’s been playing in Naples, he’s had several coaches, and they’ve all trusted him.”

That consistency has also been noted by Sébastien Migné, the current Haiti head coach, who previously worked with Zambo Anguissa during his time with Cameroon’s national team setup.

“When he’s at his best, he can contribute a lot because he has great qualities. He’s a very good player, physically strong and technically gifted. It remains to be seen whether he’ll see out his contract, given that Napoli is a top-five Italian club and will be playing in the Champions League again next season, or if he’ll be tempted by another challenge.”

As speculation builds, financial and sporting considerations are likely to play a role in any potential move.

Valued at around €20 million, Zambo Anguissa currently earns an annual salary of €3.46 million, excluding bonuses. A transfer could offer the prospect of improved terms, as well as a fresh competitive environment.

For Tchoutang, a return to the English Premier League—where the midfielder previously played with Fulham—could be a logical next step if the right opportunity arises.

“He’s been in Naples for over five years, and I think that if he receives a good offer and his club makes a compelling proposal, a move is conceivable. He knows the English league, and if he leaves Italy, I think he’ll choose an ambitious team that’s aiming for a top-five finish and playing in the Champions League. But he’s happy in Naples, so they’ll have to offer him a real opportunity.”

However, Migné suggested that options beyond England could also emerge, particularly given the player’s age and experience.

“England, yes, why not. But where? He’s 30, so he doesn’t fit the profile of players targeted by Arsenal and Chelsea, who focus on younger talent. I think he could also interest other European clubs. I’m thinking of Galatasaray Istanbul, who have the resources to offer him a big contract in addition to a solid sporting project. And I wouldn’t be surprised if he also receives offers from Saudi Arabia.”

For now, Napoli retain control over the situation thanks to the length of his contract.

The club is expected to return to the Champions League next season, a factor that could weigh heavily in the player’s decision-making process.

Zambo Anguissa’s next move—whether staying in Naples or seeking a new challenge—will depend on both his recovery and the opportunities that arise in the coming months.

What remains clear is that, despite a disrupted season, his reputation as one of Africa’s most reliable midfielders remains intact.