Parma Calcio 1913 Squad 2024/25
Parma Calcio 1913, one of Italy’s most storied football clubs, has undergone a significant transformation ahead of the 2024/25 season. After a period of rebuilding, the Crociati are poised to make a strong impact in Serie A, blending experienced veterans with promising young talents. The club’s management has made strategic signings to bolster every department, ensuring a balanced and competitive squad. This post delves into the detailed breakdown of Parma’s 2024/25 roster, examining each player’s background, achievements, and potential contributions to the team’s success.
Goalkeepers
- Gianluigi Buffon
- Nationality: Italian
- Former Clubs: Parma, Juventus, Paris Saint-Germain
- Transfer Fee: Free (returned to Parma after retirement)
- Description: A living legend of Italian football, Gianluigi Buffon has returned to Parma for a sentimental final chapter in his illustrious career. Having retired from professional football in 2023, Buffon rejoined Parma in a player-coach role, bringing unparalleled experience and leadership to the squad. While his playing time will be limited, his presence in the dressing room and on the training ground is invaluable. Buffon’s reflexes, positioning, and command of the penalty area remain exceptional, even at 46. His return has galvanized the team and fans alike, symbolizing the club’s rich history and ambition for the future.
- Leandro Lemanni
- Nationality: Argentine
- Former Clubs: Boca Juniors, Udinese
- Transfer Fee: €5 million
- Description: Signed from Udinese in the summer of 2024, Leandro Lemanni is Parma’s first-choice goalkeeper for the season. The 28-year-old Argentine is known for his agility, quick reflexes, and ability to perform under pressure. Lemanni spent three seasons at Udinese, where he established himself as one of Serie A’s most reliable shot-stoppers. His distribution and ability to play out from the back align perfectly with Parma’s tactical philosophy. With 12 clean sheets in the previous season, Lemanni is expected to be a cornerstone of Parma’s defensive solidity.
- Marco Carnesecchi
- Nationality: Italian
- Former Clubs: Atalanta, Cremonese (loan)
- Transfer Fee: €8 million
- Description: A highly-rated young goalkeeper, Marco Carnesecchi joined Parma from Atalanta in a deal worth €8 million. The 24-year-old Italian spent the 2022/23 season on loan at Cremonese, where his performances earned widespread acclaim. Carnesecchi is a modern goalkeeper, excelling in one-on-one situations and possessing excellent ball-playing skills. His ability to read the game and make crucial saves in high-pressure moments makes him a valuable asset. Carnesecchi is seen as the long-term successor to Buffon and is expected to compete with Lemanni for the starting spot.
Defenders
- Alessandro Buongiorno
- Nationality: Italian
- Former Clubs: Torino
- Transfer Fee: €12 million
- Description: Alessandro Buongiorno, a towering center-back, joined Parma from Torino in a €12 million deal. The 25-year-old Italian is renowned for his physicality, aerial dominance, and composure on the ball. Buongiorno’s ability to intercept passes and organize the defensive line has made him one of Serie A’s most sought-after defenders. His leadership qualities and experience in top-flight football make him a key figure in Parma’s backline. Buongiorno’s arrival has significantly strengthened the team’s defensive unit, providing stability and reliability.
- Mohamed Ihattaren
- Nationality: Dutch
- Former Clubs: PSV Eindhoven, Juventus, Ajax
- Transfer Fee: €7 million
- Description: Although primarily an attacking midfielder, Mohamed Ihattaren has been utilized as a right-back in Parma’s tactical setup. The 22-year-old Dutchman joined from Ajax, where he struggled for consistent game time. Ihattaren’s technical skills, vision, and ability to contribute to both defense and attack make him a versatile option. His pace and dribbling ability allow him to overlap effectively, providing width and creativity on the flanks. Ihattaren’s adaptability and potential for growth make him an exciting addition to the squad.
- Lorenzo Pirola
- Nationality: Italian
- Former Clubs: Inter Milan, Salernitana (loan)
- Transfer Fee: €6 million
- Description: Lorenzo Pirola, a product of Inter Milan’s youth academy, joined Parma in a €6 million deal. The 22-year-old center-back spent the previous season on loan at Salernitana, where he showcased his defensive prowess and maturity beyond his years. Pirola is known for his strong tackling, positional awareness, and ability to play out from the back. His left-footedness adds balance to the defensive line, and his potential for development makes him a valuable long-term investment.
- Giuseppe Pezzella
- Nationality: Italian
- Former Clubs: Udinese, Lecce
- Transfer Fee: €4 million
- Description: Giuseppe Pezzella, a versatile left-back, joined Parma from Udinese for €4 million. The 27-year-old Italian is known for his stamina, defensive discipline, and ability to contribute to the attack. Pezzella’s experience in Serie A and his familiarity with the league’s demands make him a reliable option. His crossing ability and work rate on the flank provide Parma with an additional attacking dimension. Pezzella’s consistency and professionalism make him a key member of the squad.
Midfielders
- Franco Carboni
- Nationality: Argentine
- Former Clubs: Inter Milan, Cagliari (loan)
- Transfer Fee: €5 million
- Description: Franco Carboni, a dynamic central midfielder, joined Parma from Inter Milan in a €5 million deal. The 21-year-old Argentine spent the previous season on loan at Cagliari, where he impressed with his energy, passing range, and ability to break up play. Carboni’s versatility allows him to play in multiple midfield roles, making him a valuable asset. His technical skills and tactical intelligence make him a promising prospect for the future.
- Antonio Candreva
- Nationality: Italian
- Former Clubs: Lazio, Inter Milan, Sampdoria
- Transfer Fee: Free
- Description: A seasoned campaigner, Antonio Candreva joined Parma on a free transfer after leaving Sampdoria. The 37-year-old Italian brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the squad. Candreva’s crossing, set-piece delivery, and ability to score from distance make him a valuable attacking midfielder. Despite his age, his work rate and technical ability remain exceptional. Candreva’s presence provides Parma with a reliable option in midfield and a mentor for younger players.
- Adrien Tameze
- Nationality: French
- Former Clubs: Nice, Atalanta, Hellas Verona
- Transfer Fee: €3 million
- Description: Adrien Tameze, a combative defensive midfielder, joined Parma from Hellas Verona for €3 million. The 30-year-old Frenchman is known for his physicality, tackling, and ability to shield the defense. Tameze’s experience in Serie A and his understanding of the league’s demands make him a reliable option. His ability to break up play and distribute the ball effectively adds balance to Parma’s midfield.
Forwards
- Gianluca Scamacca
- Nationality: Italian
- Former Clubs: Sassuolo, West Ham United, Atalanta
- Transfer Fee: €15 million
- Description: Gianluca Scamacca, a powerful striker, joined Parma from Atalanta in a €15 million deal. The 25-year-old Italian is known for his physical presence, aerial ability, and clinical finishing. Scamacca’s ability to hold up play and bring teammates into the game makes him a complete forward. His experience in Serie A and the Premier League adds depth and quality to Parma’s attack. Scamacca is expected to be the focal point of the team’s offensive efforts.
- Matias Soule
- Nationality: Argentine
- Former Clubs: Juventus, Frosinone (loan)
- Transfer Fee: €10 million
- Description: Matias Soule, a talented winger, joined Parma from Juventus in a €10 million deal. The 21-year-old Argentine spent the previous season on loan at Frosinone, where he showcased his dribbling skills, creativity, and goal-scoring ability. Soule’s pace and ability to take on defenders make him a constant threat on the flanks. His potential for growth and flair make him an exciting addition to Parma’s attack.
Conclusion
Parma Calcio 1913’s 2024/25 squad is a blend of experience, youth, and tactical versatility. With strategic signings in every department, the team is well-equipped to compete in Serie A and achieve its objectives. The return of Gianluigi Buffon symbolizes the club’s rich history, while the influx of young talents like Scamacca and Soule points to a bright future. As the season unfolds, Parma’s fans can look forward to an exciting and competitive campaign.