Andrea Zambonin to miss start of Exeter Chiefs season

Exeter Chiefs lock Andrea Zambonin will miss the start of the 2026/27 season after undergoing shoulder surgery following Italy’s Nations Championship campaign.

The Italian international is expected to remain unavailable until after the autumn international window.

Andrea Zambonin sidelined after shoulder surgery

Zambonin returned from international duty with a persistent shoulder problem which was subsequently assessed as requiring surgery.

The lock made 27 appearances during his first season with Exeter, including the Gallagher PREM Final, and established an effective second-row partnership with Dafydd Jenkins.

Director of rugby Rob Baxter said the current recovery timetable means Zambonin is unlikely to return before the completion of the autumn international programme.

“Unfortunately, Andrea returned from Italy’s summer games with a niggling shoulder issue that, upon further inspection, was deemed serious enough to require an operation.

“His recovery timescale looks like he won’t be available until after the autumn international block.”

Paul Brown-Bampoe targeting October return

Exeter will also begin the campaign without winger Paul Brown-Bampoe. The 24-year-old underwent heel surgery during the off-season and is continuing his rehabilitation with the Chiefs medical team.

Brown-Bampoe is currently expected to become available for selection during October.

Exeter Chiefs injury returns boost pre-season

Jack Yeandle and Max Norey are also approaching the final stages of their rehabilitation after sustaining injuries during the closing weeks of last season. Both could feature during Exeter’s pre-season programme.

The Chiefs begin their preparations against Scarlets at Sandy Park on September 5 before travelling to face Cardiff Rugby on September 19.