Napoli’s FIFA 22 inclusion and Konami exclusivity deal explained with strategic insights
Napoli’s Transition to PES Exclusivity
Konami has secured a landmark agreement with S.S.C. Napoli, marking another significant shift in football gaming licensing. The deal, announced April 28, 2022, positions Napoli alongside Barcelona as a premier PES partner club, though crucially maintains their presence in FIFA 22 before exclusivity begins.
This acquisition continues Konami’s aggressive Serie A strategy, following their successful exclusivity deals with Juventus (rebranded as Piemonte Calcio in FIFA) and AS Roma (appearing as Roma FC).
The partnership extends beyond digital representation, with Konami obtaining naming rights to Napoli’s training ground. This mirrors real-world football sponsorship models and demonstrates Konami’s commitment to comprehensive brand integration.
Impact on FIFA 22 and Beyond
While FIFA 22 players can enjoy Napoli’s authentic representation, the 2022/23 season brings significant changes. The club’s stadium, kits, and badges will become PES exclusives, forcing FIFA to use generic alternatives. However, player likenesses secured through FIFPro licensing will remain intact.
Naoki Morita, Konami’s President, emphasized: “Our partnership establishes eFootball PES as the definitive Italian football experience. Napoli’s choice reflects confidence in our long-term vision for authentic football simulation.”
Serena Salvione, Napoli’s Chief International Development Officer, highlighted the club’s global ambitions: “This collaboration accelerates our international brand development through innovative digital experiences.”
Strategic Implications for Football Gaming
The Napoli deal reveals Konami’s targeted approach to licensing, focusing on clubs with strong international followings. This strategy creates regional strongholds, with Italian clubs becoming a PES specialty while EA maintains broader league partnerships.
For players, this means:
- Research club licensing status before purchase decisions
- Consider owning both franchises for complete team access
- Monitor FIFPro coverage for player likeness consistency
The ongoing licensing battle suggests more clubs may switch allegiances, potentially creating distinct gameplay experiences across platforms.
Related Content
Yu-Gi-Oh! x eFootball crossover turns Neymar into the Dark Magician
EA Sports FC 26 review – The best football game in years
All licensed leagues, teams & stadiums in EA FC 26
No reproduction without permission：SeeYouSoon Game Club » Will Napoli be in FIFA 22? PES inks exclusive deal with Serie A giant Napoli's FIFA 22 inclusion and Konami exclusivity deal explained with strategic insights