Manuel Locatelli, born on January 8, 1998, is a professional footballer from Italy, known for his calm demeanor in midfield. He plays as a defensive midfielder for Juventus and the Italian national team, earning a reputation for his tactical acumen, technical skills, and adaptability. Rising from the prestigious academy of AC Milan, Locatelli's career has transformed him into one of Italy's most dependable midfielders.

Locatelli's initial potential blossomed at Milan, where he debuted as a young player and netted impressive goals, proving his ability to perform in crucial situations. His career advanced significantly during his time at Sassuolo and Juventus, where he exhibited both resilience and versatility. On the international front, he celebrated success with Italy's UEFA Euro 2020-winning team, making a lasting impression on the world stage.

As a central figure in midfield with a talent for the remarkable, Locatelli’s journey continues to engage both fans and experts, embodying the spirit and sophistication of Italian football.

Key Career Highlights

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

AC Milan Breakthrough: During the 2016–17 Serie A season, Locatelli made a name for himself by scoring two spectacular goals, one of which was a remarkable shot against Juventus. This phase of his career also marked the achievement of his first professional trophy, the 2016 Supercoppa Italiana.

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

Success with Juventus and International Achievements: Upon joining Juventus in 2021, Locatelli rapidly established himself as a pivotal player, scoring important goals and securing the captain's armband. On the international front, his contributions to Italy’s victory in Euro 2020, including two goals against Switzerland, cemented his place in Azzurri history.

Statistics

Manuel Locatelli's career exemplifies his capacity to consistently deliver high-quality performances and make significant impacts at both the club and international levels. His path has been shaped by his experiences with major Italian clubs and his vital contributions to the national team. Throughout his career, Locatelli has accumulated over 200 appearances in Serie A, underscoring his versatility and importance in midfield for various teams, including AC Milan, Sassuolo, and Juventus. His influence on the pitch extends beyond appearances, as he has also scored crucial goals in vital matches, including those in Serie A, the UEFA Champions League, and for the Italian national squad.

Locatelli's leadership has played a crucial role in his career. After joining Juventus in 2021, his performances and character allowed him to ascend to a leadership role within the team, culminating in his appointment as Juventus captain in November 2024. His ability to lead both on and off the pitch showcases his maturity and his skill in managing the pressures associated with captaining one of Italy’s most prestigious clubs. Furthermore, Locatelli was instrumental in Italy's victorious Euro 2020 campaign, where his two goals were pivotal in securing Italy's triumph, further solidifying his status among Italian football supporters.

Throughout his club career, Locatelli has established impressive statistics in various competitions. During his time at AC Milan from 2015 to 2018, he made 48 appearances, scoring 2 goals and providing 3 assists. His stint at Sassuolo from 2018 to 2021 saw his impact increase significantly, as he played 99 matches, netting 7 goals and assisting 9 times. After joining Juventus in 2021, he continued to demonstrate his value on the field, featuring in 95 games, scoring 6 goals, and contributing 12 assists.

Throughout his national team career, Locatelli has made notable contributions at various youth levels prior to establishing himself on the senior stage. He has accumulated 31 caps and scored 3 goals while representing Italy's U17 to U21 teams. His senior national team journey has been equally impressive, featuring 44 caps and 3 goals, which highlights his important role in 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 and Comebacks

The trajectory of Locatelli's career reflects his resilience and mental strength. His journey from limited chances at AC Milan to becoming an integral player at Sassuolo demonstrated his unwavering determination. While he was encouraged to pursue loan opportunities, Locatelli believed in his capabilities and thrived with regular playing time.

His transfer to Juventus represented a significant turning point in his career, where he quickly adapted to the increased expectations that came with it. Locatelli has encountered both personal and professional challenges, including injuries and stiff competition, yet his dedication to continual improvement has always triumphed.

Heritage

Manuel Locatelli’s legacy is emerging as a hallmark of contemporary Italian midfield play. His vital contributions to Italy's success in Euro 2020 played a crucial role in restoring the nation’s footballing pride, with Locatelli epitomizing the essential qualities of resilience and tactical prowess that define Italian football. This victory not only represented a major accomplishment for Italy but also cemented Locatelli's status in the nation’s footballing lore, highlighting his capability to excel under pressure on the international stage.

Locatelli's leadership significantly flourished when he was appointed captain of Juventus in November 2024, a recognition that highlighted not only his tactical acumen but also his character. As the captain of Juventus, Locatelli has solidified his position as a vital part of the club's midfield, leading his teammates through difficult times and playing an essential role in the ongoing success of Juventus. This leadership position further enhances his reputation as an influential 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 trajectory, shaped by hard work, patience, and an unwavering belief in his capabilities, exemplifies the benefits of persistence in the realm of professional football. Young players who look up to Locatelli can find motivation in his achievements, recognizing that talent, paired with determination and dedication, can lead to the highest levels of success.

Future Prospects

The outlook for Locatelli is promising, with numerous milestones ahead.  As Juventus seeks success both domestically and in Europe, Locatelli is poised to play a crucial role. His ongoing involvement with the Italian national team also makes him a significant asset in preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

As Locatelli approaches the peak of his career, his blend of experience and talent is set to make him essential for both his club and the national team. Fans and analysts alike are excitedly looking forward to the upcoming phases of this remarkable journey.