Manuel Locatelli, born on January 8, 1998, is an Italian professional footballer renowned for his composed demeanor in the midfield. As a defensive midfielder for Juventus and the Italian national team, Locatelli is well-known for his tactical acumen, technical skills, and adaptability. He rose through the ranks of AC Milan’s prestigious academy, embarking on a career that has positioned him as one of Italy's most dependable midfielders.

His initial promise blossomed at Milan, where he debuted as a teenager and netted impressive goals, highlighting his ability to perform during crucial moments. Locatelli's career gained additional momentum during his time at Sassuolo and Juventus, where he showcased his resilience and adaptability. On the international stage, he attained success as part of Italy's UEFA Euro 2020-winning team, leaving a lasting impression in the world of football.

As a midfield leader known for his remarkable abilities, Locatelli's journey continues to engage both fans and critics, representing the resilience and sophistication of Italian football.

Significant Career Highlights

Locatelli's career, from his early days at Atalanta and AC Milan to becoming a key player for Juventus, is filled with many significant achievements.

AC Milan Breakthrough: Locatelli made his mark on the football scene during the 2016–17 Serie A season by scoring two spectacular goals, one of which was a standout effort against Juventus. This phase of his career also marked the beginning of his trophy haul, as he claimed his first piece of professional silverware with the 2016 Supercoppa Italiana.

Sassuolo Rise: During his time at Sassuolo, Locatelli honed his skills and transformed into a well-rounded midfielder under the tutelage of Roberto De Zerbi. His outstanding performances garnered attention from top clubs across Europe, solidifying his status as one of the premier midfield talents in Serie A.

Juventus Achievements and International Honors: After transferring to Juventus in 2021, Locatelli quickly established himself as an essential player, scoring crucial goals and eventually being appointed as captain. On the international front, his key role in Italy's victory at Euro 2020, highlighted by a pair of goals against Switzerland, secured his place in the lore of the Azzurri.

Stats

Manuel Locatelli's career highlights his capacity to consistently produce strong performances and make significant contributions at both club and international levels. His path has been shaped by his experiences with prestigious clubs in Italy and his vital function within the national team. Throughout his career, Locatelli has accumulated over 200 appearances in Serie A, demonstrating his versatility and crucial role in midfield for several clubs, including AC Milan, Sassuolo, and Juventus. His influence on the pitch extends beyond mere appearances, as he has also scored key goals during critical moments, including matches in Serie A, the UEFA Champions League, and for the Italian national team.

Locatelli's leadership has played a crucial role in his career. Since joining Juventus in 2021, his exceptional performances and character have allowed him to ascend to a leadership role within the team, culminating in his appointment as the captain of Juventus in November 2024. His ability to lead both on and off the pitch underscores his maturity and capacity to manage the demands associated with being the captain of one of Italy's most prestigious clubs. Furthermore, Locatelli was instrumental in Italy's victorious Euro 2020 campaign, contributing two goals that significantly aided Italy's success in the tournament and solidifying his status among Italian football supporters.

Throughout his club career, Locatelli has achieved notable statistics across various competitions. While at AC Milan, he made 48 appearances from 2015 to 2018, netting 2 goals and providing 3 assists. His tenure at Sassuolo from 2018 to 2021 marked a significant enhancement in his impact, where he played 99 matches, scored 7 goals, and assisted 9 times. After transferring to Juventus in 2021, he maintained his vital role, featuring in 95 games, scoring 6 goals, and delivering 12 assists.

Throughout his national team career, Locatelli has showcased his talent at various youth levels before making a notable impact on the senior squad. He accumulated 31 caps and netted 3 goals for Italy's U17 to U21 teams. His tenure with the senior national team has also been commendable, featuring 44 caps and 3 goals, highlighting his significant contribution to Italy’s midfield.

Club	Season	Appearances	Goals	Assists
AC Milan	2015–2018	48	2	3
Sassuolo	2018–2021	99	7	9
Juventus	2021–2024	95	6	12
Total		242	15	24

National Team	Caps	Goals
Italy U17–U21	31	3
Italy Senior	44	3

Resilience & Comebacks

The trajectory of Locatelli's career exemplifies his resilience and mental strength. His journey from facing limited chances at AC Milan to becoming a key player at Sassuolo highlights his determination. Even when advised to pursue loan opportunities, Locatelli remained confident in his skills and thrived with regular playing time.

Joining Juventus was a significant turning point for Locatelli, as he successfully adjusted to the increased expectations. Throughout this time, he has encountered both personal and professional challenges, including injuries and fierce competition, yet his dedication to personal development has consistently triumphed.

Heritage

Manuel Locatelli is cementing his status as an emblem of contemporary Italian midfield artistry. His vital contributions to Italy's victory in Euro 2020 played a crucial role in restoring the nation's footballing pride, with Locatelli exemplifying the essential qualities of resilience and tactical prowess that define Italian football. This triumph not only represented a major success for Italy but also entrenched Locatelli's legacy in the country’s football history, demonstrating his capability to excel under pressure on the international stage.

Locatelli's leadership significantly developed when he was appointed captain of Juventus in November 2024, a testament to his football intelligence and character. As the captain, Locatelli has established himself as a vital component of the team’s midfield, helping his teammates navigate difficult times and playing an essential role in the ongoing success of Juventus. This captaincy not only enhances his reputation as a crucial player within the club but also solidifies his position in the broader context of both club and international football.

Furthermore, Locatelli’s journey serves as a source of inspiration for young midfielders and aspiring footballers around the globe. His journey, defined by dedication, patience, and a steadfast belief in his abilities, exemplifies the benefits of perseverance in the realm of professional football. Young athletes who look up to Locatelli can find motivation in his achievements, realizing that a blend of talent, determination, and commitment can lead to exceptional success.

Future Prospects

The prospects for Locatelli are promising, with numerous significant achievements ahead. As Juventus aims for success both domestically and in Europe, Locatelli is poised to be an integral part of the team. His ongoing participation in the Italian national squad also solidifies his role as a crucial player for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.

As he reaches the peak of his career, Locatelli's blend of experience and talent is set to make him essential for both his club and the national team. Both supporters and analysts await with excitement the upcoming chapters of this remarkable journey.