Manuel Locatelli, born on January 8, 1998, is a professional football player from Italy, recognized for his calm demeanor in midfield. He plays as a defensive midfielder for Juventus and the Italian national team, where he is known for his tactical awareness, technical skills, and versatility. Rising through the ranks of AC Milan’s prestigious academy, his journey has transformed him into one of the most dependable midfielders in Italy.

Locatelli's early potential was realized at AC Milan, where he debuted as a teenager and scored stunning goals, demonstrating his ability to shine in crucial situations. His career continued to gain traction with successful periods at Sassuolo and Juventus, where he showcased his resilience and adaptability. On the international front, he celebrated success as part of Italy's UEFA Euro 2020-winning team, leaving a lasting impression on the global football scene.

As a pivotal player in midfield with a knack for the remarkable, Locatelli’s journey continues to enthrall both fans and critics, embodying the resilience and sophistication inherent in Italian football.

Significant Career Achievements

From his early development at Atalanta and AC Milan to becoming a key player at Juventus, Locatelli’s career features a multitude of significant achievements.

AC Milan Breakthrough: Locatelli made a significant impact during the 2016–17 Serie A season, showcasing his talent with two spectacular goals, notably one against Juventus that left a lasting impression. Additionally, this period marked the achievement of his first professional trophy, the 2016 Supercoppa Italiana.

Sassuolo's Rise: While at Sassuolo, Locatelli honed his skills, transforming into a well-rounded midfielder under the mentorship of Roberto De Zerbi. His outstanding performances caught the eye of top European clubs, solidifying his status as one of the finest midfield prospects in Serie A.

Juventus Triumph and International Success: When he joined Juventus in 2021, Locatelli swiftly established himself as an essential player, netting crucial goals and assuming the role of captain. On the global stage, his role in Italy's victory at Euro 2020, which included scoring two goals against Switzerland, secured his legacy in the history of the Azzurri.

Performance Metrics

Manuel Locatelli's career exemplifies his ability to consistently deliver strong performances and make significant contributions at the highest tiers of club and international football. His journey highlights his time with notable clubs in Italy and his vital involvement with the Italian national team. Over the years, Locatelli has made over 200 Serie A appearances, displaying his versatility and importance in midfield across several clubs, including AC Milan, Sassuolo, and Juventus. His influence on the field has transcended mere appearances, as he has also scored crucial goals in significant moments, notably in Serie A, the UEFA Champions League, and while representing the Italian national team.

Locatelli's role as a leader has been a crucial part of his professional journey. Since joining Juventus in 2021, his outstanding performances and strong character propelled him into a leadership role within the team, eventually earning him the captaincy in November 2024. His ability to lead both on and off the field demonstrates his maturity and capacity to manage the expectations that come with being the captain of one of Italy’s most historic clubs. Moreover, he played a vital role in Italy's victorious Euro 2020 campaign, where his two goals significantly contributed to Italy's success, further solidifying his legacy among Italian football enthusiasts.

Throughout his club career, Locatelli has established remarkable 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 saw his impact increase significantly, with 99 appearances, 7 goals, and 9 assists to his name. After moving to Juventus in 2021, he maintained his significance in the team, featuring 95 times, scoring 6 goals, and delivering 12 assists.

Throughout his national team career, Locatelli has showcased his skills at various youth levels before making a notable impact on the senior squad. He has accumulated 31 caps and netted 3 goals while representing Italy at the U17 to U21 levels. His contributions to the senior national team have also been commendable, as he has earned 44 caps and scored 3 goals, highlighting his essential role in Italy’s midfield.

Team

Season

Matches Played

Objectives

Assists

AC Milan

From 2015 to 2018

48

2

3

Sassuolo

2018–2021

Ninety-nine

7

9

Juventus

2021–2024

95

6

12

Overall

242

Fifteen

24

National Team

Appearances

Objectives

Italy Under-17 to Under-21

31

three

Italy National Team

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 spells, Locatelli believed in his own abilities and thrived with regular playing time.

Joining Juventus represented a significant turning point in his career, as he embraced the increased expectations with ease. Locatelli has encountered both personal and professional challenges, such as injuries and stiff competition, yet his dedication to personal and professional growth has consistently triumphed.

Heritage

Manuel Locatelli’s legacy is taking shape as a representative of contemporary Italian midfield play. His role in Italy’s triumph at Euro 2020 was crucial in restoring the nation’s pride in football, with Locatelli exemplifying the essential traits of resilience and tactical prowess characteristic of Italian football. This victory not only represented a noteworthy achievement for Italy but also cemented Locatelli's status in the annals of the country's football history, highlighting his capability to excel under pressure on the international stage.

Locatelli's leadership flourished when he was appointed captain of Juventus in November 2024, a recognition that highlighted both his footballing intellect and character. As the captain of Juventus, he has become a foundational element of the team's midfield, providing guidance to his teammates during tough times and assuming a crucial role in the club's ongoing achievements. This leadership position within the club enhances his status as an important figure in both club and international football.

In addition, Locatelli's journey serves as a source of inspiration for young midfielders and aspiring footballers around the globe. His career, shaped by diligent effort, patience, and a steadfast belief in his own abilities, exemplifies the rewards that come with persistence in professional football. Young athletes who look up to Locatelli can find motivation in his achievements, realizing that a combination of talent, determination, and dedication can pave the way to achieving great success.

Future Perspectives

Locatelli's future looks promising, with numerous milestones ahead.As Juventus seeks success both domestically and in Europe, Locatelli is positioned to play a crucial role. Additionally, his ongoing involvement with the Italian national team makes him an important player for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

As he reaches the peak of his career, Locatelli's blend of experience and talent will prove essential for both his club and the national team. Both fans and critics are excitedly looking forward to the upcoming chapters of this remarkable journey.