Empoli FC Goalkeepers 2024/25
Empoli FC, a club renowned for its ability to nurture talent and compete in Italy’s top-flight Serie A, has always placed a strong emphasis on building a solid defensive foundation. Central to this strategy is the role of the goalkeeper, a position that demands not only technical skill but also leadership and composure under pressure. As the 2024/25 season approaches, Empoli’s goalkeeping department boasts a mix of experienced veterans and promising young talents. This post delves into the profiles of each goalkeeper currently on Empoli’s roster, providing an in-depth look at their backgrounds, career trajectories, and what they bring to the team.
1. Guglielmo Vicario
Guglielmo Vicario, an Italian shot-stopper, has established himself as one of the most reliable goalkeepers in Serie A. 
Born on October 7, 1996, in Udine, Vicario began his career at Udinese’s youth academy before making his professional debut with Fontanafredda in the lower tiers of Italian football. His journey to the top has been marked by perseverance and consistent performances, earning him a move to Cagliari in 2019. After a successful loan spell at Perugia, Vicario joined Empoli in 2021, where he quickly became the first-choice goalkeeper.
Standing at 6’4”, Vicario combines physical presence with exceptional reflexes, making him a formidable presence in one-on-one situations. His ability to read the game and command his penalty area has been instrumental in Empoli’s defensive solidity. Vicario’s distribution is another standout feature, as he often initiates quick counterattacks with precise long balls. Having represented Italy at the youth level, he is widely regarded as a future candidate for the senior national team. With no transfer fee involved in his move to Empoli, Vicario represents a shrewd piece of business for the club.
2. Samuele Perisan
Samuele Perisan, another Italian goalkeeper, serves as a dependable backup to Vicario. Born on March 21, 1997, in Maniago, Perisan began his career at Pordenone before moving to Chievo Verona in 2017. His time at Chievo was marked by loan spells at various clubs, including Cremonese and Pescara, where he gained valuable experience in Serie B. Empoli signed Perisan in 2022, recognizing his potential to provide depth and competition in the goalkeeping department.
Perisan’s strengths lie in his agility and shot-stopping ability, particularly in close-range situations. While he may not possess the same commanding presence as Vicario, his quick reflexes and ability to make acrobatic saves have earned him the trust of the coaching staff. Perisan’s journey has been one of steady progression, and at 27 years old, he is entering the prime years of his career. His transfer to Empoli involved a nominal fee, making him a cost-effective addition to the squad. Perisan’s professionalism and work ethic make him an invaluable member of the team, both on and off the pitch.
3. Jacopo Furlan
Jacopo Furlan, a seasoned Italian goalkeeper, brings a wealth of experience to Empoli’s goalkeeping corps. Born on February 21, 1989, in Conegliano, Furlan began his career at Treviso before moving to Juventus in 2008. Although he never made a senior appearance for the Bianconeri, Furlan gained valuable experience during loan spells at clubs like Crotone and Modena. His career has since taken him to various Serie B and Serie C teams, including Pisa and Cosenza, before joining Empoli in 2023.
Furlan’s role at Empoli is primarily that of a mentor and third-choice goalkeeper. His experience and leadership qualities make him a valuable presence in the dressing room, particularly for younger players. While he may not feature regularly on the pitch, Furlan’s professionalism and dedication to the team’s cause are unquestionable. His arrival at Empoli was on a free transfer, reflecting the club’s focus on adding depth without significant financial outlay. Furlan’s career serves as a testament to the importance of perseverance and adaptability in the world of professional football.
4. Alberto Brignoli
Alberto Brignoli, an Italian goalkeeper with a penchant for dramatic moments, is another member of Empoli’s goalkeeping squad. Born on August 19, 1991, in Sarnico, Brignoli began his career at Atalanta before embarking on a series of loan spells at clubs like Ternana and Sampdoria. He gained widespread recognition during his time at Benevento, where he famously scored a last-minute equalizer against AC Milan in 2017, becoming the first goalkeeper to score a Serie A goal in over a decade. Brignoli joined Empoli in 2023, adding depth and experience to the goalkeeping department.
Brignoli’s playing style is characterized by his calmness under pressure and ability to make crucial saves in high-stakes situations. While he may not be the most physically imposing goalkeeper, his positioning and anticipation often compensate for this. Brignoli’s journey has been one of resilience, and his ability to bounce back from setbacks has earned him the respect of teammates and fans alike. His transfer to Empoli was completed for a modest fee, reflecting the club’s pragmatic approach to squad building. Brignoli’s presence adds a layer of experience and composure to Empoli’s goalkeeping options.
5. Elia Caprile
Elia Caprile, a young Italian goalkeeper with immense potential, rounds out Empoli’s goalkeeping roster. Born on August 25, 2001, in Pescara, Caprile began his career at Chievo Verona before moving to Leeds United in 2020. Although he never made a senior appearance for the English club, Caprile gained valuable experience during loan spells at Pro Sesto and Aurora Pro Patria in Italy’s lower divisions. Empoli signed Caprile in 2023, recognizing his potential to develop into a top-tier goalkeeper.
Caprile’s strengths lie in his shot-stopping ability and composure on the ball. Despite his young age, he displays a maturity beyond his years, often making smart decisions in high-pressure situations. Caprile’s distribution is another notable aspect of his game, as he is comfortable playing out from the back and initiating attacks. His transfer to Empoli involved a nominal fee, making him a low-risk, high-reward signing for the club. Caprile’s development will be closely monitored, as he has the potential to become a key player for Empoli in the coming years.
Conclusion
Empoli FC’s goalkeeping department for the 2024/25 season is a blend of experience, reliability, and youthful promise. Guglielmo Vicario stands as the undisputed first choice, backed by the dependable Samuele Perisan and the experienced Jacopo Furlan. Alberto Brignoli adds depth and a touch of flair, while Elia Caprile represents the future of the club’s goalkeeping ranks. Together, they form a cohesive unit that provides stability and confidence to the team’s defensive setup. As Empoli continues to compete in Serie A, the contributions of these goalkeepers will be crucial in determining the club’s success in the upcoming season.