Cagliari and Sebastiano Esposito clash as striker quits pre‑season camp

Sebastiano Esposito, the 21‑year‑old forward of Cagliari Calcio, left the club’s pre‑season training camp in Ponte di Legno without permission. The club announced the unauthorized departure and said it would consider disciplinary measures, confirming that Esposito will not travel with the squad to the friendly against Union Berlin in Germany.

Esposito’s agent, Mario Giuffredi, disputes the club’s version, claiming the player had a five‑day leave approved by sporting director Pietro Accardi and coach Fabio Pisacane, and that the dispute stems from stalled contract‑renewal talks. The disagreement has turned into a public feud, with the agent accusing the club’s management of falsehoods and describing the sporting director as a “puppet”.

Amid the turmoil, Cagliari is evaluating its options. Reports link the club to an Atalanta proposal of €5 million plus Daniel Maldini as a possible exchange, while Napoli, Hull City and other suitors have shown interest. The club is also reportedly scouting a replacement, with Vasilije Adzic from Juventus mentioned as a loan target. The situation leaves Esposito’s future at Cagliari uncertain and could affect the team’s summer transfer plans.