Domenico Berardi sustained a season-ending injury during Sassuolo’s defeat to Hellas Verona on Sunday, likely ruling him out of Euro 2024 with Italy. With Berardi’s absence, Luciano Spalletti faces the challenge of finding a suitable replacement for the 29-year-old forward.

Berardi was forced to leave the field in the 60th minute at the Stadio Bentegodi in Verona after falling to the ground in pain. He was swiftly substituted by Samu Castillejo, leaving Sassuolo coach Davide Ballardini and Italy’s Spalletti concerned about his condition.

Initial reports indicate that Berardi may have suffered an Achilles tendon injury, a rare but debilitating setback in football. If confirmed, Berardi could be sidelined for at least six months, a blow reminiscent of Leonardo Spinazzola’s ordeal during the 2021 European Championship.

Having featured prominently in Italy’s recent matches under Spalletti, Berardi’s absence will require a reshuffle in the national team’s lineup. Potential replacements for Berardi on the right wing include Nicolò Zaniolo and Matteo Politano, while Bologna’s Riccardo Orsolini and Torino’s Raoul Bellanova offer additional options.

Moreover, players like Federico Chiesa, Stephan El Shaarawy, and Mattia Zaccagni, who typically operate on the left wing, could be adapted to fill Berardi’s role if necessary. Similarly, Wilfried Gnonto and Giacomo Raspadori, despite their central striker roles, may be considered for wider positions by Spalletti.

Berardi’s absence from Euro 2024 would be felt deeply, considering his contributions to Italy’s national team, including five starts in seven appearances during Euro 2020, culminating in the team’s victory in the Final against England at Wembley Stadium.

Domenico Berardi

This season he played in total 17 times for 1438 minutes for Serie A.

Domenico Berardi scored 9 goals for Sassuolo. He procured 3 assists. He received 6 yellow cards and no red cards.

His team is currently 18th in Serie A. In the last match Sassuolo lost 1-0 against Hellas Verona.

Sassuolo performance and stats

Sassuolo is currently 18th in the Serie A with 20 points.

In the last 27 games, it has won 5 times, drawn 5 times, and lost 17 times. In its last match, Sassuolo lost 1-0 against Hellas Verona.​​

It has a negative goal difference after scoring 32 goals and conceding 55.​