Udinase Calcio Squad 2024/25

The 2024/25 season marks a new chapter for Udinase Calcio, a club with a rich history and a passionate fanbase. After a series of strategic acquisitions and the development of homegrown talent, the squad is poised to make a significant impact in both domestic and international competitions. This season’s roster is a blend of experienced veterans, rising stars, and shrewd signings, all brought together under the guidance of a visionary coaching staff. Below, we delve into the detailed breakdown of the squad, categorized by position, highlighting each player’s unique attributes, career trajectory, and contributions to the team.

Udinase Calcio squad

Goalkeepers

1. Marco Silvestri

  • Nationality: Italian
  • Former Clubs: Leeds United, Hellas Verona, Chievo Verona
  • Transfer Fee: €2.5 million (from Hellas Verona, 2021)

A seasoned shot-stopper, Silvestri brings a wealth of experience to Udinase Calcio. Known for his commanding presence in the box and exceptional reflexes, he has been a reliable figure between the posts since his arrival. Standing at 6’5”, he dominates aerial duels and is a vocal leader, organizing the defense with precision. Silvestri’s ability to pull off crucial saves in high-pressure situations has earned him the trust of both teammates and fans. His distribution has improved significantly, making him a modern goalkeeper capable of initiating attacks from the back.

2. Maduka Okoye

Okoye is a rising star in the goalkeeping world, known for his agility and quick decision-making. At 24, he has already represented Nigeria at the international level, showcasing his talent on the biggest stages. His reflexes are among the best in the league, and his ability to read the game allows him to anticipate opponents’ moves effectively. Okoye’s footwork and comfort with the ball at his feet make him an ideal fit for Udinase’s possession-based style of play. His transfer from Watford was seen as a coup, and he is expected to challenge Silvestri for the starting spot.

3. Simone Scuffet

  • Nationality: Italian
  • Former Clubs: Udinase Calcio (youth), FC Lugano, Cremonese
  • Transfer Fee: Free (return from loan, 2024)

A product of Udinase’s youth academy, Scuffet is a familiar face who has returned to the club after loan spells elsewhere. Once hailed as one of Italy’s most promising young goalkeepers, he has matured into a dependable backup option. His shot-stopping ability and composure under pressure remain his standout qualities. While he may not be the first-choice keeper, Scuffet’s dedication and understanding of the club’s ethos make him a valuable member of the squad.

Defenders

1. Rodrigo Becão

  • Nationality: Brazilian
  • Former Clubs: CSKA Moscow, São Paulo
  • Transfer Fee: €10 million (from CSKA Moscow, 2022)

Becão is the cornerstone of Udinase’s defense, combining physicality with tactical intelligence. Standing at 6’3”, he excels in aerial duels and is a formidable presence in both boxes. His ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions has made him one of the most consistent center-backs in Serie A. Becão’s leadership qualities are evident, often marshaling the backline with authority. His experience in European competitions adds a layer of composure to the squad.

2. Nehuén Pérez

  • Nationality: Argentinian
  • Former Clubs: Atlético Madrid, Granada, Udinese (loan)
  • Transfer Fee: €8 million (from Atlético Madrid, 2023)

Pérez is a technically gifted defender who has seamlessly integrated into Udinase’s system. Known for his ball-playing ability, he is comfortable stepping into midfield to break lines with precise passes. His defensive awareness and timing in tackles are exceptional, making him a reliable partner for Becão. Pérez’s versatility allows him to operate as a left-sided center-back or even as a full-back when needed. At 23, he has a bright future ahead and is already attracting interest from top clubs.

3. Festy Ebosele

  • Nationality: Irish
  • Former Clubs: Derby County, Udinese (youth)
  • Transfer Fee: Free (from Derby County, 2022)

Ebosele is a dynamic right-back whose explosive pace and dribbling ability make him a constant threat on the flank. Originally a winger, he has adapted well to the defensive role, using his speed to recover possession and support attacks. His work rate and stamina are unmatched, often covering the entire right side single-handedly. Ebosele’s potential is immense, and at 21, he is already a key player for both club and country.

4. Jens Stryger Larsen

  • Nationality: Danish
  • Former Clubs: Austria Wien, RB Salzburg, Udinese
  • Transfer Fee: €3.5 million (from Austria Wien, 2017)

A veteran of the squad, Stryger Larsen brings experience and versatility to the defense. Capable of playing as a right-back, left-back, or even in midfield, he is a tactically astute player who understands the game deeply. His crossing ability and set-piece delivery are valuable assets, often leading to goal-scoring opportunities. While not the quickest, his positioning and intelligence more than compensate, making him a reliable option in various situations.

5. Ricardo Rodríguez

Rodríguez is a seasoned left-back with a wealth of experience in top European leagues. Known for his defensive solidity and accurate crossing, he provides balance to the backline. His leadership qualities and professionalism have made him a respected figure in the dressing room. Rodríguez’s ability to contribute both defensively and offensively makes him an invaluable asset, especially in tight games where his experience shines through.

6. Enzo Ebosse

  • Nationality: Cameroonian
  • Former Clubs: Angers SCO, Udinese
  • Transfer Fee: €4.5 million (from Angers SCO, 2022)

Ebosse is a physically imposing defender who excels in one-on-one duels. His strength and aerial prowess make him a nightmare for opposing forwards. Despite his size, he is surprisingly agile, allowing him to keep up with quicker attackers. Ebosse’s development has been impressive, and he is now a regular starter for both Udinase and the Cameroonian national team. His potential is sky-high, and he is expected to play a pivotal role this season.

Midfielders

1. Walace

  • Nationality: Brazilian
  • Former Clubs: Hamburger SV, Hannover 96, Udinese
  • Transfer Fee: €6 million (from Hannover 96, 2019)

Walace is the engine of Udinase’s midfield, known for his tireless work rate and ball-winning abilities. His positional awareness and ability to break up play are crucial in transitioning from defense to attack. Walace’s passing range has improved significantly, allowing him to dictate the tempo of games. A natural leader, he often wears the captain’s armband and sets the Standard for commitment and professionalism.

2. Lazar Samardžić

  • Nationality: Serbian
  • Former Clubs: RB Leipzig, Udinese
  • Transfer Fee: €3 million (from RB Leipzig, 2021)

Samardžić is a creative maestro whose technical skills and vision make him a standout player in Serie A. At just 22, he has already drawn comparisons to some of the game’s greats. His dribbling ability and eye for a killer pass are unmatched, often unlocking stubborn defenses. Samardžić’s versatility allows him to operate as a central midfielder or in a more advanced role, making him a constant threat. His potential is limitless, and he is widely regarded as one of the league’s brightest talents.

3. Jean-Victor Makengo

  • Nationality: French
  • Former Clubs: Nice, Toulouse, Udinese
  • Transfer Fee: €5 million (from Nice, 2020)

Makengo is a box-to-box midfielder whose energy and athleticism are vital to Udinase’s system. His ability to cover ground quickly and contribute at both ends of the pitch makes him a complete midfielder. Makengo’s tackling and interceptions often disrupt opponents’ rhythm, while his driving runs and powerful shots add an extra dimension to the attack. At 26, he is in his prime and continues to be a key player for the team.

4. Sandi Lovrić

  • Nationality: Slovenian
  • Former Clubs: LASK Linz, Lugano, Udinese
  • Transfer Fee: €2.5 million (from Lugano, 2022)

Lovrić is a technically gifted midfielder with a keen eye for goal. His ability to arrive late in the box and finish chances has made him a valuable asset. Lovrić’s passing accuracy and composure under pressure allow him to control the midfield, while his set-piece delivery is an added bonus. His versatility and work ethic make him a favorite of the coaching staff, and he is expected to play a significant role this season.

5. Martín Payero

  • Nationality: Argentinian
  • Former Clubs: Banfield, Middlesbrough, Udinese
  • Transfer Fee: €4 million (from Middlesbrough, 2023)

Payero is a dynamic midfielder whose technical skills and creativity have added a new dimension to Udinase’s play. His ability to operate in tight spaces and deliver incisive passes makes him a constant threat. Payero’s work rate and defensive contributions are also commendable, making him a well-rounded player. At 25, he is entering his prime and is expected to be a key figure in the midfield.

Forwards

1. Isaac Success

  • Nationality: Nigerian
  • Former Clubs: Granada, Watford, Udinese
  • Transfer Fee: €6 million (from Watford, 2021)

Success is a powerful forward whose physicality and pace make him a handful for defenders. His ability to hold up the ball and bring teammates into play is crucial to Udinase’s attacking strategy. Success’s finishing has improved significantly, and he is now a reliable goal scorer. His work ethic and determination make him a fan favorite, and he is expected to lead the line this season.

2. Beto

  • Nationality: Portuguese
  • Former Clubs: Portimonense, Udinese
  • Transfer Fee: €8 million (from Portimonense, 2021)

Beto is a prolific striker whose goal-scoring instincts have made him one of Serie A’s most feared forwards. His movement off the ball and ability to find space in the box are exceptional. Beto’s aerial prowess and clinical finishing have been key to Udinase’s success in recent seasons. At 26, he is in his prime and continues to deliver consistent performances.

3. Florian Thauvin

Thauvin is a technically gifted winger whose flair and creativity add a new dimension to Udinase’s attack. His dribbling ability and eye for goal make him a constant threat. Thauvin’s experience in top leagues and international competitions brings a wealth of knowledge to the squad. At 31, he remains a key player and is expected to provide leadership and quality in the final third.

4. Gerard Deulofeu

  • Nationality: Spanish
  • Former Clubs: Barcelona, Everton, Watford, Udinese
  • Transfer Fee: €5 million (from Watford, 2021)

Deulofeu is a versatile forward whose pace and trickery make him a nightmare for defenders. His ability to play as a winger or second striker adds flexibility to Udinase’s attack. Deulofeu’s creativity and goal-scoring ability have been crucial in tight games. Despite injury setbacks, he remains a vital part of the squad and is determined to make an impact this season.

Conclusion

The 2024/25 Udinase Calcio squad is a well-balanced mix of youth and experience, with each player bringing unique qualities to the table. The defensive unit is solid and organized, the midfield is dynamic and creative, and the attack is potent and versatile. Under the guidance of a talented coaching staff, this team has the potential to achieve great things. With a passionate fanbase behind them, Udinase Calcio is ready to take on the challenges of the season and compete at the highest level. The future looks bright for this historic club, and the 2024/25 campaign promises to be an exciting journey.