Cagliari Calcio Defenders 2024/25
Cagliari Calcio, the historic Sardinian club, has always been known for its resilience and tactical discipline, particularly in defense. As the 2024/25 season approaches, the Rossoblu have assembled a robust defensive unit capable of withstanding the rigors of Serie A and beyond. This post delves into the defenders who will be donning the Cagliari jersey this season, providing an in-depth look at their backgrounds, skills, and contributions to the team. From seasoned veterans to promising young talents, Cagliari’s backline is a blend of experience and potential, ready to shield their goal and propel the team to new heights.
Alberto Dossena
Alberto Dossena, an Italian center-back, has become a cornerstone of Cagliari’s defense since his arrival. Born in Brescia, Dossena began his career at Atalanta’s youth academy before making his professional debut with the Bergamo-based club. 
His composure on the ball and aerial prowess quickly caught the attention of scouts, leading to a move to Cagliari in 2022 for a transfer fee of €4 million. Standing at 6’2”, Dossena is a commanding presence in the box, excelling in intercepting crosses and neutralizing opposing strikers. His ability to read the game and make crucial tackles has earned him the trust of the coaching staff. Dossena’s leadership qualities have also seen him wear the captain’s armband on several occasions, underscoring his importance to the squad.
Gabriele Zappa
Gabriele Zappa, another Italian talent, is a versatile right-back who joined Cagliari in 2021 from Monza for a fee of €2.5 million. Known for his tireless work rate and attacking instincts, Zappa is equally adept at defending and contributing to the offense. His overlapping runs and precise crosses have created numerous scoring opportunities for his teammates. Zappa’s defensive acumen is highlighted by his ability to track back quickly and dispossess opponents with well-timed challenges. At 25 years old, he is entering the prime of his career, and his consistent performances have made him a fan favorite. Zappa’s journey from Serie B to establishing himself as a Serie A regular is a testament to his determination and skill.
Pantelis Hatzidiakos
Pantelis Hatzidiakos, a Greek international, brings a wealth of experience to Cagliari’s defensive line. The 27-year-old center-back joined the club in 2023 from AZ Alkmaar for a fee of €3.5 million. Hatzidiakos is renowned for his physicality and ability to dominate one-on-one duels. His time in the Eredivisie honed his technical skills, making him comfortable in playing out from the back. Hatzidiakos’s no-nonsense approach to defending, coupled with his aerial dominance, makes him a reliable option in both open play and set-piece situations. His adaptability has also seen him slot into a defensive midfield role when required, showcasing his tactical intelligence and versatility.
Tommaso Augello
Tommaso Augello, an Italian left-back, joined Cagliari in 2022 from Sampdoria for a fee of €2 million. Augello is known for his attacking flair and defensive solidity, making him a well-rounded full-back. His ability to deliver pinpoint crosses and link up with wingers adds an extra dimension to Cagliari’s attack. Defensively, Augello is disciplined and rarely caught out of position, thanks to his excellent spatial awareness. At 29 years old, he brings a wealth of Serie A experience, having made over 150 appearances in the league. Augello’s consistency and professionalism have made him an integral part of the squad, and his leadership on the pitch is invaluable.
Edoardo Goldaniga
Edoardo Goldaniga, an Italian center-back, returned to Cagliari in 2023 after a brief stint with Genoa. The 30-year-old defender initially joined the Rossoblu in 2021 on loan from Sassuolo before making the move permanent for €1.5 million. Goldaniga is a physically imposing defender who excels in aerial duels and clearing dangerous balls. His ability to organize the backline and communicate effectively with his teammates has been crucial in maintaining defensive stability. Goldaniga’s experience in Serie A, spanning over a decade, has equipped him with the knowledge to handle high-pressure situations. His commitment to the club and consistent performances have solidified his place in the starting lineup.
Alessandro Di Pardo
Alessandro Di Pardo, a young Italian right-back, is one of Cagliari’s most promising talents. The 22-year-old joined the club’s youth academy at a young age and has steadily risen through the ranks. Di Pardo made his first-team debut in 2022 and has since become a regular fixture in the squad. Known for his pace and technical ability, Di Pardo is a modern full-back who thrives in both defensive and offensive roles. His ability to dribble past opponents and deliver accurate crosses has drawn comparisons to some of Italy’s finest full-backs. Di Pardo’s potential is immense, and with the right guidance, he could develop into one of Serie A’s standout defenders.
Luca Ceppitelli
Luca Ceppitelli, a seasoned Italian center-back, has been a loyal servant to Cagliari since joining the club in 2014. Now 34 years old, Ceppitelli’s experience and leadership are invaluable assets to the team. Although his playing time has reduced in recent seasons, he remains a reliable option off the bench. Ceppitelli’s aerial ability and positioning make him a formidable presence in the box, particularly during set-pieces. His dedication to the club and willingness to mentor younger players have earned him immense respect from fans and teammates alike. Ceppitelli’s legacy at Cagliari is secure, and he continues to contribute both on and off the pitch.
Adam Obert
Adam Obert, a Slovakian left-back, joined Cagliari in 2023 from Crotone for a fee of €1.8 million. The 26-year-old defender is known for his versatility, capable of playing as a left-back or center-back. Obert’s physicality and stamina allow him to cover large areas of the pitch, making him an asset in both defensive and transitional phases. His ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions has been instrumental in Cagliari’s defensive success. Obert’s international experience with Slovakia adds another layer of depth to his game, and his adaptability makes him a valuable member of the squad.
Simone Pinna
Simone Pinna, an Italian right-back, is another product of Cagliari’s youth academy. The 21-year-old made his first-team debut in 2023 and has shown glimpses of his potential. Pinna’s speed and agility make him a threat on the flanks, while his defensive awareness ensures he is not easily bypassed. Although still developing, Pinna’s work ethic and determination have impressed the coaching staff. His ability to learn from more experienced teammates and adapt to the demands of Serie A bodes well for his future. Pinna represents the next generation of Cagliari Defenders, and his progress will be closely monitored.
Mateusz Wieteska
Mateusz Wieteska, a Polish center-back, joined Cagliari in 2023 from Clermont Foot for a fee of €2 million. The 27-year-old defender is known for his composure on the ball and ability to play out from the back. Wieteska’s tactical intelligence and positioning make him a reliable option in defense, while his physicality allows him to compete with some of the league’s strongest forwards. His experience in Ligue 1 has prepared him for the challenges of Serie A, and his adaptability has seen him quickly settle into the squad. Wieteska’s contributions have been crucial in maintaining Cagliari’s defensive solidity.
Conclusion
Cagliari Calcio’s defensive unit for the 2024/25 season is a blend of experience, youth, and versatility. From the commanding presence of Alberto Dossena to the promising talent of Alessandro Di Pardo, each defender brings unique qualities to the team. The Rossoblu’s backline is well-equipped to handle the demands of Serie A, with a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging stars. As the season unfolds, these defenders will play a pivotal role in Cagliari’s quest for success, showcasing their skills and determination on the pitch. With such a well-rounded defensive squad, Cagliari fans have every reason to be optimistic about the future.