U.S. Sassuolo Calcio has officially appointed Alberto Aquilani as the new head coach of the first team, the club announced. The former midfielder, who previously played for the neroverdi in 2017, transitions to the role following coaching tenures with the Fiorentina Primavera, Pisa, and Catanzaro. Veronica Squinzi, Mapei CEO and Sassuolo Vicepresident, described the appointment as a “welcome return,” citing the club’s growth since Aquilani’s time as a player.
Why Sassuolo selected Alberto Aquilani
Sassuolo’s decision to hire Aquilani rests on his track record of developing younger players, a strategy central to the club’s long-term operational philosophy. According to the club’s official statement, Aquilani earned the “Best Coach” award in the Primavera championship at the end of the 2022/23 season. His tenure at Fiorentina resulted in multiple Coppa Italia Primavera titles and Supercoppa victories between 2020 and 2022. By choosing a coach with a proven history in youth development, the club aims to bridge the gap between its academy talent and the senior professional squad.
Alberto Aquilani played 16 matches for Sassuolo in 2017, logging 1,237 minutes on the pitch before moving into coaching roles within the Italian football structure.
How Aquilani’s coaching career evolved
Aquilani’s path to the Sassuolo bench reflects a steady climb through different tiers of Italian football. Following his retirement from a playing career that included stints at Roma, Liverpool, Juventus, and Milan, he began as an Under-18 coach at Fiorentina in 2019. He later served as a technical collaborator for Giuseppe Iachini. His progression included a transition to Serie B with Pisa, where he finished 13th, and a subsequent season at Catanzaro, where he achieved 59 points and a fifth-place finish. Despite narrowly missing promotion after a playoff draw with Monza, his ability to secure high point totals in a competitive league made him a target for the Sassuolo hierarchy.
What is the future outlook for the squad?
The appointment signals a return to a familiar face to stabilize the club’s trajectory. Veronica Squinzi noted that since Aquilani’s departure as a player in 2017, both he and the club have evolved significantly. The club’s leadership anticipates that this shared history will facilitate a smoother integration of his tactical vision. Analysts often point to the “former player” model as a way to increase locker room cohesion, provided the coach can balance his previous relationships with the current professional demands of management.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is the new head coach of U.S. Sassuolo Calcio?
Alberto Aquilani has been appointed as the new head coach of the first team. - Did Aquilani play for Sassuolo before?
Yes, he played for Sassuolo in 2017, making 16 appearances for the club. - What is Aquilani’s coaching background?
He previously managed Fiorentina’s Primavera team, Pisa in Serie B, and Catanzaro.
What are your thoughts on Aquilani’s return to the Mapei Stadium? Share your comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on Serie A coaching changes.
