Giovanni Di Lorenzo

Italian footballer.

Giovanni Di Lorenzo is an Italian professional footballer who plays as a right-back for Serie A club Napoli, where he also serves as the team captain, and the Italy national team. Born on August 4, 1993, in Castelnuovo di Garfagnana, Italy, Di Lorenzo began his football career in the youth ranks of Lucchese and later Reggina. He made his professional debut with Reggina in 2010, accumulating experience in Serie B and Lega Pro.

In 2015, Di Lorenzo transferred to Matera, where his performances attracted attention, leading to his move to Empoli in 2017. At Empoli, he played a crucial role in the team's promotion to Serie A during the 2017-2018 season. His solid defensive skills, combined with his ability to contribute to the attack, garnered widespread recognition.

In 2019, Di Lorenzo joined Napoli, quickly establishing himself as a key player in the squad. His versatility, work rate, and consistent performances have been instrumental in Napoli's domestic and European campaigns. In 2020, he was part of the Napoli team that won the Coppa Italia.

Internationally, Di Lorenzo made his debut for Italy in 2019 and was selected for the squad that competed in UEFA Euro 2020. He played an important role in Italy’s victorious campaign, starting in several matches, including the final against England, which Italy won on penalties.

Di Lorenzo is known for his defensive reliability, stamina, and ability to support offensive plays, making him one of the top right-backs in Italian football. His leadership qualities and on-field performances have solidified his reputation both at the club and international levels.

Early life & youth football

Di Lorenzo is known for his versatility and well-rounded skill set as a right-back. Defensively, he is solid and reliable, with good positioning and tackling ability. He reads the game well, allowing him to make timely interceptions and provide cover for his center-backs. What sets Di Lorenzo apart is his significant contribution to the attack. He possesses excellent stamina and work rate, enabling him to make frequent overlapping runs down the right flank. His crossing ability is a key asset, providing a consistent source of chances for his teammates. Di Lorenzo is also comfortable with the ball at his feet, capable of dribbling past opponents and linking up with midfielders and forwards. He has shown a knack for scoring goals, unusual for a full-back, often arriving late in the box or striking from distance. His tactical flexibility allows him to adapt to different formations, playing as a traditional right-back, wing-back, or even in midfield when required.

Career beginnings

During the 2010/11 and 2011/12 seasons, Giovanni Di Lorenzo began his professional football career with Reggina in Serie B. As a young defender, he made his first-team debut in the 2010/11 season, gradually gaining experience and playing time. Over these two seasons, Di Lorenzo appeared sporadically, totaling 6 league appearances, as he developed his skills and adapted to professional football. His performances in these formative years laid the groundwork for his future success, showcasing his potential and earning him opportunities to grow within the Italian football system.

In the 2012/13 season, Giovanni Di Lorenzo was on loan from Reggina to Cuneo, a club competing in Lega Pro Prima Divisione (the third tier of Italian football). This loan move was significant for Di Lorenzo's development, as it provided him with more consistent playing time and an opportunity to refine his skills in a competitive environment.

During his time with Cuneo, Di Lorenzo made 27 league appearances, becoming a regular starter for the team. His performances at right-back were marked by his defensive solidity, tactical awareness, and ability to contribute to the team's offensive play. He demonstrated his versatility by adapting to different tactical setups and proving effective in both defensive duties and forward runs.

Despite Cuneo's struggles in the league, Di Lorenzo's individual performances stood out, earning him recognition and valuable experience. The season was crucial in helping him mature as a player, showcasing his potential to clubs at higher levels.

After his loan spell at Cuneo, Di Lorenzo returned to Reggina with significantly enhanced skills and confidence, ready to take on more responsibilities and challenges. The 2012/13 season thus played a pivotal role in his journey toward becoming a prominent figure in Italian football.

His 2013/14 season was a period of transition in his early career. Here's a 250-word summary of his performance during this season: and Di Lorenzo began the 2013/14 season with Reggina in Serie B, Italy's second tier. This was his first full season at the professional level, having come through Reggina's youth system.

At Reggina, Di Lorenzo struggled to break into the first team. He made only a handful of appearances for the club in Serie B during the first half of the season. These limited opportunities were primarily as a substitute, as he was still seen as a young, developing player.

In January 2014, seeking more playing time to aid his development, Di Lorenzo was loaned out to Cuneo, a club playing in Lega Pro Seconda Divisione (then the fourth tier of Italian football).

At Cuneo, Di Lorenzo found more regular playing time. He made several appearances for the club in the second half of the season, primarily as a right-back. This loan spell provided him with valuable experience and regular competitive football.

During this season, Di Lorenzo was still developing his tactical understanding and physical attributes. The experience in Lega Pro, known for its physical and competitive nature, was crucial for his development.

Statistically, detailed numbers for Di Lorenzo's performances at this level and at this stage of his career are limited. However, this season was more about gaining experience and developing as a player than about statistical output.

Overall, the 2013/14 season was one of learning and adaptation for Di Lorenzo. While it may not have been spectacular in terms of achievements, it provided important experience that would help shape his future career. The move to Cuneo, in particular, gave him the playing time needed to continue his development as a professional footballer.

Giovanni Di Lorenzo's 2014/15 season was spent entirely with Matera in Serie C (Lega Pro), Italy's third tier of professional football. This was an important season in his early career development. Here's a 250-word summary of his performance: and The 2014/15 campaign marked Di Lorenzo's first full season with Matera, having joined the club in the summer of 2014 from Reggina. At this point in his career, Di Lorenzo was still a young player looking to establish himself in professional football.

Di Lorenzo quickly became a regular fixture in Matera's lineup. He made numerous appearances throughout the season, primarily playing as a right-back but also demonstrating his versatility by occasionally featuring in midfield positions.

In terms of offensive contributions, detailed statistics for Serie C from this period are limited. However, it's known that Di Lorenzo began to show his ability to contribute in attack from his defensive position, a trait that would become more prominent later in his career.

Defensively, Di Lorenzo continued to develop his tactical understanding and physical attributes. The rigors of Serie C football, known for its physicality and competitiveness, helped shape his defensive skills.

Matera had a solid season in Serie C, finishing in a respectable mid-table position. Di Lorenzo's consistent performances played a part in the team's stability.

This season was crucial for Di Lorenzo's development as a player. Regular playing time at the professional level allowed him to refine his skills and gain valuable experience. His performances at Matera during this period laid the foundation for his future career progression.

Overall, while not as high-profile as his later seasons, the 2014/15 campaign was an important stepping stone in Di Lorenzo's journey from the lower leagues to becoming a top-flight player and eventually an international for Italy.

Development and breakthrough

Giovanni Di Lorenzo's 2015/16 season was split between two clubs and two different levels of Italian football. Here's a 250-word summary of his performance: and Di Lorenzo began the 2015/16 season with Matera in Serie C, Italy's third tier. He had been with Matera since 2014 and had established himself as a regular player for the club.

In the first half of the season with Matera, Di Lorenzo continued to develop his skills and gain experience. He made several appearances for the club, primarily as a right-back, but also occasionally in midfield, showcasing his versatility.

In January 2016, Di Lorenzo's performances caught the attention of Empoli, a Serie A club at the time. Empoli signed him during the winter transfer window, marking a significant step up in Di Lorenzo's career from Serie C to Serie A.

Upon joining Empoli, Di Lorenzo initially found playing time limited as he adapted to the higher level of competition. He made 5 appearances for Empoli in Serie A in the second half of the season, mostly as a substitute.

This period was crucial for Di Lorenzo's development, as he was able to train with and learn from Serie A level players and coaches. While he didn't feature prominently on the pitch, this time was likely valuable for his adjustment to top-flight football.

Empoli finished the season in 10th place in Serie A, comfortably avoiding relegation.

Overall, the 2015/16 season was a transitional one for Di Lorenzo, marked by his mid-season move from Serie C to Serie A. While his on-field impact was limited, this season laid the groundwork for his future development and success in Italy's top flight.

The 2016/17 campaign was Di Lorenzo's first full season with Empoli in Serie A, following his transfer from Matera in Serie C the previous year. This season presented a significant step up in competition for the young defender.

Di Lorenzo's playing time was somewhat limited compared to his later seasons. He made 18 appearances in Serie A, with 12 of those being starts. This reflects his status as a developing player still adapting to the demands of top-flight football.

Offensively, Di Lorenzo's contributions were modest. He didn't record any goals or assists in Serie A that season, as he was primarily focused on his defensive duties and adapting to the higher level of play.

Defensively, Di Lorenzo showed promise but also experienced the challenges of competing against Serie A-level attackers. Empoli struggled as a team, conceding 61 goals over the course of the season.

Unfortunately for Empoli and Di Lorenzo, the season ended in relegation. The team finished 18th in Serie A, dropping down to Serie B for the following season.

Despite the disappointing team result, this season was crucial for Di Lorenzo's development. He gained valuable experience playing against top-tier opposition, which would serve him well in the coming years.

The relegation meant that Di Lorenzo would spend the following season in Serie B, where he would become a key player for Empoli and play a significant role in their quick return to Serie A.

Overall, while challenging, the 2016/17 season was an important learning experience in Di Lorenzo's career progression.

Di Lorenzo was a key player for Empoli throughout the 2017/18 Serie B campaign. He featured regularly at right-back, playing a significant role in the team's successful push for promotion.

In terms of appearances, Di Lorenzo showed impressive consistency and durability. He played in 37 out of 42 league matches for Empoli, establishing himself as a reliable presence in the team's defensive line.

Offensively, Di Lorenzo continued to develop his attacking skills from the right-back position. He contributed 4 goals and 7 assists in Serie B, demonstrating his ability to impact the game in the final third. This offensive output was particularly impressive for a defender and highlighted his potential as a modern, attacking full-back.

Defensively, Di Lorenzo was part of a solid Empoli backline that helped the team secure automatic promotion. Empoli finished the season as Serie B champions, with Di Lorenzo playing a crucial role in their success.

The 2017/18 season was important for Di Lorenzo's tactical development. Under manager Aurelio Andreazzoli, he refined his positional play and improved his ability to balance defensive responsibilities with attacking contributions.

This successful campaign in Serie B set the stage for Di Lorenzo's debut in Serie A the following season. His performances caught the eye of several observers and began to generate interest from larger clubs.

Overall, the 2017/18 season was a pivotal one in Di Lorenzo's career, showcasing his potential and playing a key role in Empoli's promotion to the top flight of Italian football.

The 2018/19 campaign was Di Lorenzo's first season in Serie A, following Empoli's promotion from Serie B. He quickly established himself as a key player for the team, demonstrating his ability to compete at the highest level of Italian football.

Di Lorenzo's durability and consistency were remarkable. He played in all 38 Serie A matches for Empoli, starting each game and playing every single minute of the league season. This level of reliability is rare for any player, let alone a defender in his debut top-flight season.

Offensively, Di Lorenzo had an impressive output for a right-back. He scored 5 goals and provided 3 assists in Serie A, showcasing his ability to contribute in attack. His forward runs and crossing ability became important assets for Empoli's offensive play.

Defensively, Di Lorenzo adapted well to the increased quality of opposition in Serie A. While Empoli struggled as a team, conceding a high number of goals, Di Lorenzo's individual performances caught the eye of many observers.

Despite Di Lorenzo's efforts, Empoli were relegated at the end of the season, finishing 18th in Serie A. However, his personal performances stood out amid the team's struggles.

This season was crucial for Di Lorenzo's career progression. His consistent, high-level performances in Serie A put him on the radar of bigger clubs, ultimately leading to his transfer to Napoli the following summer.

Overall, the 2018/19 season marked Di Lorenzo's emergence as a promising talent in Italian football, setting the stage for his future success.

Becoming an established player

Giovanni Di Lorenzo's 2019/20 season with Napoli was his debut campaign with the club, following his transfer from Empoli. Here's a 250-word summary of his performance: and The 2019/20 season marked Di Lorenzo's first year in a top-tier club, and he quickly established himself as a key player for Napoli. He adapted well to the step up in competition, becoming the first-choice right-back under managers Carlo Ancelotti and later Gennaro Gattuso.

In Serie A, Di Lorenzo made 36 appearances, scoring 3 goals and providing 2 assists. This offensive output was impressive for a defender in his first season at a new club, demonstrating his ability to contribute in attack as well as defense.

Defensively, Di Lorenzo showed his versatility, often playing as part of a back four but also adapting to a wing-back role when required. His consistency and reliability quickly made him a fan favorite at the San Paolo Stadium.

The season was somewhat turbulent for Napoli, with a managerial change mid-season and inconsistent league form. However, Di Lorenzo's performances remained a bright spot, helping the team finish seventh in Serie A.

A highlight of Di Lorenzo's season was Napoli's Coppa Italia triumph. He played a crucial role in the team's cup run, which culminated in a victory over Juventus in the final, securing his first major trophy with the club.

In Europe, Di Lorenzo featured regularly in Napoli's Champions League campaign, gaining valuable experience at the highest level of club football.

This season also saw Di Lorenzo earn his first call-up to the Italian national team, making his debut in October 2019, a testament to his rapid rise and impressive performances for Napoli.

Di Lorenzo continued to establish himself as Napoli's first-choice right-back during the 2020/21 season. He demonstrated remarkable durability, appearing in all 38 Serie A matches, playing every single minute of the league campaign.

In Serie A, Di Lorenzo contributed 2 goals and 7 assists, showcasing his ability to impact the game offensively. This marked his most productive season in terms of goal contributions up to that point in his Napoli career.

Defensively, Di Lorenzo was a key part of Napoli's backline, helping the team maintain one of the better defensive records in the league. His consistency and versatility allowed him to adapt to different tactical setups under manager Gennaro Gattuso.

Napoli finished the Serie A season in fifth place, narrowly missing out on Champions League qualification on the final day. Di Lorenzo's performances were one of the bright spots in a somewhat disappointing campaign for the club.

In Europe, Di Lorenzo featured prominently in Napoli's Europa League run, which ended in the round of 32 against Granada.

This season was particularly important for Di Lorenzo on the international stage. His consistent performances for Napoli earned him a place in Italy's Euro 2020 squad (played in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic). He went on to play a crucial role in Italy's triumphant campaign, featuring in the final against England.

Overall, the 2020/21 season saw Di Lorenzo further cement his status as one of Serie A's top full-backs and elevate his profile on the international stage, setting the stage for his future successes.

Di Lorenzo maintained his status as Napoli's first-choice right-back throughout the 2021/22 season, featuring prominently in both Serie A and Europa League competitions. He made 33 appearances in Serie A, demonstrating his reliability and fitness.

Defensively, Di Lorenzo remained a consistent performer, helping Napoli achieve one of the better defensive records in the league. His positioning, tackling, and ability to read the game were key assets to the team's backline.

In terms of offensive output, Di Lorenzo contributed 1 goal and 5 assists in Serie A. While these numbers were respectable for a full-back, they fell slightly short of the high standards he would set in the following season.

The 2021/22 campaign saw Napoli finish third in Serie A under manager Luciano Spalletti, qualifying for the Champions League. Di Lorenzo's steady performances were crucial in achieving this goal, even if the team fell short of a title challenge.

In European competition, Di Lorenzo featured regularly in Napoli's Europa League campaign, which ended in the knockout round playoffs against Barcelona.

This season also saw Di Lorenzo cement his place in the Italian national team, building on his success from Euro 2020 the previous summer.

While not his most spectacular season, 2021/22 was important for Di Lorenzo's development. It laid the groundwork for his increased offensive output and leadership role in the following title-winning campaign, showcasing his consistency and reliability at a high level of play.

Giovanni Di Lorenzo had an exceptional 2022/23 season with Napoli, playing a crucial role in the club's historic Serie A title win - their first in 33 years.

As the team's captain and right-back, Di Lorenzo was a consistent presence in Napoli's lineup, appearing in all 38 league matches. His defensive solidity and attacking contributions were vital to the team's success under manager Luciano Spalletti.

Di Lorenzo's offensive output was particularly impressive. He scored 3 goals and provided 5 assists in Serie A, showcasing his ability to contribute in the final third. His overlapping runs and crossing ability added an extra dimension to Napoli's attack.

Defensively, Di Lorenzo's positioning, tackling, and ability to read the game helped Napoli maintain one of the best defensive records in the league. His versatility allowed him to adapt to different tactical setups, whether playing in a back four or occasionally as a wing-back.

Beyond his on-field performances, Di Lorenzo's leadership was crucial in guiding Napoli through a season of immense pressure and expectation. As captain, he helped maintain the team's focus and unity throughout their title charge.

His consistent performances earned him continued recognition at the international level, as he remained a regular fixture in the Italian national team.

Overall, Di Lorenzo's 2022/23 season was a career-defining campaign, cementing his status as one of Serie A's top full-backs and a key figure in Napoli's historic achievement.

Late twenties

In the 2023/24 season, Giovanni Di Lorenzo continued to demonstrate his importance to Napoli as their captain and a key player. Under the management of Rudi Garcia, Di Lorenzo played a pivotal role in both defense and attack, showcasing his versatility and consistency on the right flank. His leadership on the field was crucial as Napoli sought to defend their Serie A title and make a significant impact in European competitions.

Di Lorenzo's performances in Serie A were marked by his defensive solidity and ability to contribute offensively. He provided several assists, delivering precise crosses and creating goal-scoring opportunities for his teammates. His overlapping runs and ability to stretch the opposition's defense were instrumental in Napoli's attacking play. Defensively, Di Lorenzo was reliable as ever, making crucial tackles and interceptions, and maintaining a high level of discipline and tactical awareness.

In the UEFA Champions League, Di Lorenzo played a key role in Napoli's campaign, helping them progress through the group stages and into the knockout rounds. His experience and calmness under pressure were vital in high-stakes matches, and he often led by example with his work rate and commitment.

In addition to his club performances, Di Lorenzo continued to feature for the Italian national team, participating in the qualification matches for UEFA Euro 2024. His consistent displays earned him praise from fans and pundits alike, further solidifying his status as one of Italy's top right-backs.

Overall, the 2023/24 season saw Giovanni Di Lorenzo reinforce his reputation as a leader and integral player for Napoli, contributing significantly to the team's efforts domestically and in Europe.

Youth Internationals

Di Lorenzo's youth international career with Italy was limited compared to many of his peers who currently feature in the senior national team. He did not progress through the traditional pathway of representing Italy at multiple youth levels. Di Lorenzo was not part of the Italy U17, U19, or U20 squads that often serve as a stepping stone to the senior team. His first and only appearance for Italy's youth teams came relatively late in his development. In 2015, at the age of 22, Di Lorenzo received a call-up to the Italy U21 squad. He made a single appearance for the U21 team in a friendly match. This limited involvement in youth international football is somewhat unusual for a player who would go on to become a regular for the senior national team. It underscores Di Lorenzo's late-blooming career trajectory and the unconventional path he took to reach the top level of Italian football.

Senior international

Giovanni Di Lorenzo's senior international career with the Italy national team is a testament to his growth and consistency as a top-level right-back. His journey with the Azzurri began relatively late compared to some of his peers, but he quickly established himself as a vital part of the squad.

Di Lorenzo received his first call-up to the senior national team in November 2019, reflecting his impressive performances for Napoli. He made his debut on November 15, 2019, in a UEFA Euro 2020 qualifying match against Bosnia and Herzegovina, where Italy secured a 3-0 victory. His debut marked the beginning of a reliable and impactful international career.

Di Lorenzo's versatility and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively caught the attention of Italy's head coach, Roberto Mancini. He was included in the squad for the postponed UEFA Euro 2020 tournament, held in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout the tournament, Di Lorenzo played a crucial role, starting as the right-back in several matches. His defensive stability and ability to support the attack were vital for Italy's balanced approach.

One of the standout moments of Di Lorenzo's international career came during Euro 2020. He played in the final against England at Wembley Stadium on July 11, 2021. The match ended 1-1 after extra time, and Italy triumphed 3-2 in the penalty shootout to claim their second European Championship title. Di Lorenzo's performance throughout the tournament, including the final, was widely praised, and he emerged as one of the key players in Italy's success.

Following the Euro 2020 victory, Di Lorenzo continued to be a regular feature in the Italy squad. He participated in the UEFA Nations League and the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign. Despite Italy's unexpected failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup, Di Lorenzo remained a consistent and dependable option for the national team.

In the qualification matches for UEFA Euro 2024, Di Lorenzo's experience and leadership were crucial as Italy sought to secure their place in the tournament. His ability to read the game, combined with his stamina and work ethic, made him an essential part of Mancini's tactical setup.

Overall, Giovanni Di Lorenzo's senior international career has been marked by significant achievements and consistent performances. From his debut in 2019 to his key role in Italy's Euro 2020 triumph, Di Lorenzo has proven himself to be a reliable and influential player for the Azzurri. His contributions continue to be vital as Italy competes on the international stage.