Discover the top young Italian talents shining in Serie A this season. From emerging midfielders to defensive gems, meet the future stars of the league.

Young Italians Making Their Mark in Serie A

Serie A has long been a breeding ground for world-class Italian talent, from the golden eras of Paolo Maldini and Alessandro Del Piero to the modern brilliance of Gianluigi Donnarumma and Nicolo Barella. In the 2024/25 season, a new generation of Italian footballers is rising through the ranks, bringing fresh energy, technical flair, and tactical intelligence to Italy’s top league.

While Serie A has increasingly attracted international stars, the emphasis on nurturing homegrown players remains vital. Clubs such as Atalanta, Roma, Fiorentina, and even the traditional giants like AC Milan and Juventus have made significant strides in promoting youth. These players are not just filling gaps — they are becoming key contributors.

This Gameplay Interactive article highlights the most exciting young Italian players currently making an impact in Serie A, analyzing their roles, strengths, and potential trajectories as they aim to define the future of the league and the national team.

1. Giacomo Faticanti (Lecce)

At just 20 years old, the former Roma academy talent is showing maturity beyond his years in Lecce’s midfield. Faticanti excels in breaking up play and distributing the ball effectively. His tactical understanding and work rate have made him a standout in a team battling relegation.

Key Traits:

Defensive positioning
Ball recovery
Passing range

He’s already being monitored by top Serie A clubs for a future transfer.

2. Tommaso Baldanzi (AS Roma)

After making waves at Empoli, Baldanzi earned a move to Roma, where he’s slowly becoming a creative spark in the attacking third. His low center of gravity, dribbling, and vision make him a nightmare for defenders.

Stats (2024/25):

Goals: 4
Assists: 6
Key passes per game: 2.1

At only 21, Baldanzi is often compared to Lorenzo Insigne, but with his own unique edge.

3. Giorgio Scalvini (Atalanta)

Scalvini continues to develop into one of the most complete defenders in Italy. Comfortable in a back three or four, he combines physical presence with ball-playing ability. Atalanta’s system has molded him into a modern-day center-back.

Stats (2024/25):

Interceptions per game: 2.8
Passing accuracy: 89%
Duels won: 65%

Scalvini is already knocking on the door of the national team and is rumored to be on the radar of Premier League clubs.

4. Fabiano Parisi (Fiorentina)

A tenacious left-back with incredible stamina and attacking instinct, Parisi is gaining attention for his overlapping runs and aggressive defending. He’s vital to Fiorentina’s width and transitions.

Strengths:

Crossing
1v1 defense
Tactical discipline

The 23-year-old is likely to become Italy’s first-choice fullback in the near future.

5. Samuel Giovane (Atalanta)

A versatile midfielder who can operate as a deep-lying playmaker or box-to-box engine, Giovane is making waves in Bergamo. His composure on the ball and intelligence in tight spaces make him one to watch.

Potential Role Model: Jorginho, but with more forward drive.

6. Lorenzo Colombo (Monza)

On loan from AC Milan, Colombo is gaining valuable experience and goals at Monza. A traditional No. 9, his ability to hold up the ball and finish clinically makes him a top striker prospect.

Stats (2024/25):

Goals: 8
Shot conversion rate: 22%
Aerial duels won per game: 3.5

He’s being groomed to return to Milan as a long-term attacking option.

7. Andrea Cambiaso (Juventus)

After a strong loan spell at Bologna, Cambiaso has returned to Juventus and slotted in seamlessly as a wing-back. His pace, energy, and tactical awareness have made him a key part of Allegri’s system.

Standout Traits:

High pressing intensity
Inverted full-back play
End product in the final third

Why Serie A Is Perfect for Youth Development

Unlike some European leagues where pressure on instant success is overwhelming, Serie A offers a tactical education. Young players in Italy are taught positioning, game intelligence, and defensive fundamentals early — qualities that often serve them well abroad.

Tactical Training Ground

Young Italians in Serie A often train under managers who value tactical flexibility. This gives them a strong foundation, preparing them not just for domestic success but also for international duty.

Opportunity Through Necessity

Financial constraints at some clubs have led to greater trust in youth, opening doors for talents that would otherwise stagnate in academies.

Challenges Facing Young Italian Players

Despite the growth, there are still challenges:

Limited Starting Roles: Some clubs still prefer experienced foreigners, limiting minutes for youth.
Media Pressure: High expectations from Italian media can affect confidence.
Transition to Bigger Clubs: Not all young stars succeed immediately when moving to elite teams like Juventus or Inter.

What’s Next for Italy’s Golden Generation?

With the national team in transition after their Euro 2020 triumph, these young players represent the future of the Azzurri. The upcoming World Cup cycle will likely see names like Scalvini, Baldanzi, and Colombo becoming regulars in the squad.

Conclusion

Serie A is once again becoming a hotbed for young Italian talent. These rising stars are not just future prospects — they are already shaping the outcomes of games and helping their clubs compete in one of Europe’s most competitive leagues.

As the season progresses, expect to see even more breakthroughs from academies across Italy. Whether you’re a fan of Fiorentina, Roma, Milan, or simply passionate about Italian football, supporting these young players means supporting the future of the league.

Support the league by following the journeys of these emerging Italian stars and sharing their stories. The future of Serie A and the national team depends on fans championing homegrown talent. Stay tuned and keep backing the league!