Genoa CFC Forwards 2024/25
Genoa CFC, one of Italy’s most historic football clubs, has always been a breeding ground for talent and a stage for exciting attacking football. As the 2024/25 season approaches, the club’s forward line is shaping up to be a blend of youthful exuberance, seasoned experience, and tactical versatility. This season, Genoa’s attacking options promise to deliver goals, creativity, and a dynamic edge to their Serie A campaign. Below, we take an in-depth look at each forward currently part of the squad, exploring their backgrounds, strengths, and what they bring to the team.
1. Albert Guðmundsson
Albert Guðmundsson, the Icelandic sensation, has become a cornerstone of Genoa’s attack since his arrival. Born in Reykjavik, Guðmundsson began his career at PSV Eindhoven before moving to AZ Alkmaar, where he honed his skills as a versatile forward. Genoa secured his services for a reported fee of €12 million in 2021, and he has since been a consistent performer. Known for his dribbling ability, vision, and composure in front of goal, Guðmundsson is equally adept at playing as a winger or a second striker. His knack for scoring crucial goals and creating chances makes him indispensable. With over 30 international caps for Iceland, he brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the squad. At 27, he is in his prime and poised to have another standout season.
2. Mateo Retegui
Mateo Retegui, the Argentine-Italian striker, has been a revelation since joining Genoa. Born in San Fernando, Argentina, Retegui began his career at Boca Juniors before making a name for himself in Argentina’s lower leagues. 
His impressive goal-scoring form earned him a move to Europe, with Genoa signing him for €8 million in 2023. Retegui’s physical presence, aerial ability, and clinical finishing have made him a fan favorite. Standing at 6’2”, he is a constant threat in the box and has already notched double-digit goals in his debut season. Retegui’s decision to represent Italy internationally has also seen him earn call-ups to the national team, further highlighting his growing reputation. At 25, he is a forward with immense potential and a key figure in Genoa’s attack.
3. Caleb Ekuban
Caleb Ekuban, the Ghanaian forward, brings a unique blend of pace and power to Genoa’s frontline. Born in Accra, Ekuban began his career in Italy with Chievo Verona before moving to Leeds United in England. After stints in Turkey with Trabzonspor and later in the UAE, he returned to Italy with Genoa in 2022. The club acquired him for a modest fee of €3 million, and he has since proven to be a valuable asset. Ekuban’s ability to stretch defenses with his speed and work rate makes him a useful option in both wide and central roles. Despite not being a prolific scorer, his contributions in build-up play and defensive pressing are highly valued by the coaching staff. At 30, Ekuban’s experience and versatility provide depth to the squad.
4. Elías Soler
Elías Soler, the young Spanish forward, is one of Genoa’s most exciting prospects. Hailing from Valencia, Soler came through the youth ranks at Valencia CF before making his senior debut. Genoa signed him in 2023 for a fee of €6 million, beating out several European clubs for his signature. Soler is a technically gifted player with excellent close control and an eye for goal. His ability to operate as a winger or a false nine adds tactical flexibility to the team. At just 22, Soler is still developing, but his performances have already shown glimpses of his immense potential. With his creativity and flair, he is expected to play a more prominent role in the upcoming season.
5. Kelvin Yeboah
Kelvin Yeboah, the Austrian-born Ghanaian striker, is another promising talent in Genoa’s ranks. Yeboah began his career at WSG Tirol in Austria before moving to Sturm Graz, where his goal-scoring exploits caught the attention of Genoa. The club signed him for €4.5 million in 2022, and he has since been a reliable option off the bench. Yeboah’s pace, strength, and ability to finish with both feet make him a dangerous forward. Although he has yet to establish himself as a regular starter, his potential is undeniable. At 24, Yeboah is entering a crucial phase in his career, and the 2024/25 season could be his breakout year.
6. Francesco Pio Esposito
Francesco Pio Esposito, the youngest of the Esposito brothers, is a product of Inter Milan’s famed youth academy. Born in Castellammare di Stabia, Italy, Esposito joined Genoa on loan in 2023 with an option to buy, which the club later exercised for €5 million. Known for his technical ability and intelligent movement, Esposito is a classic number nine with a keen eye for goal. Despite his young age, he has already shown maturity beyond his years, earning praise for his performances in Serie A. At 20, Esposito represents the future of Italian football and is a player Genoa will look to build around in the coming years.
7. Djed Spence
While primarily a right-back, Djed Spence has occasionally been deployed as a wing-forward due to his attacking prowess. Born in London, England, Spence began his career at Middlesbrough before gaining recognition during a loan spell at Nottingham Forest. Genoa signed him on loan from Tottenham Hotspur in 2023, with an obligation to buy for €10 million. Spence’s blistering pace, dribbling skills, and crossing ability make him a threat in advanced positions. Although not a traditional forward, his versatility adds another dimension to Genoa’s attack. At 24, Spence is a dynamic player with the potential to excel in multiple roles.
Conclusion
Genoa CFC’s forward line for the 2024/25 season is a mix of established stars, emerging talents, and versatile options. From the creativity of Albert Guðmundsson to the raw potential of Francesco Pio Esposito, the club boasts a diverse array of attacking weapons. Mateo Retegui’s goal-scoring prowess, Caleb Ekuban’s work rate, and Elías Soler’s flair further enhance the squad’s depth. With Kelvin Yeboah and Djed Spence providing additional options, Genoa’s attack is well-equipped to challenge Serie A defenses. As the new season unfolds, these forwards will be crucial in determining the club’s success, offering fans plenty of excitement and hope for a bright future.