Alessandro Crimaldi, a rising Italian-German football talent born in 2007, has quickly become a name to watch in European football. The versatile attacker, currently plying his trade at Bochum, recently debuted for Italy’s national team, donning the prestigious number 10 jersey—a clear indicator of his growing reputation.
A Dual Heritage and Early Beginnings
Crimaldi was born in Würzburg, Bavaria, to an Italian father and German mother. His footballing journey began at Würzburg Kickers, where his talent quickly stood out. By the age of 14, he had earned a move to Wolfsburg, a significant step in his development.
Breakthrough Season
The 2023/24 season proved to be a turning point for Crimaldi. Playing for Wolfsburg’s U17 team, he recorded a staggering 18 goals and 16 assists in just 26 games. His performances earned him a move to Bochum, where he was promoted to the U19 squad. Despite the step up in competition, Crimaldi has continued to shine, contributing 4 goals and 7 assists in 12 matches this season.
Playing Style and Comparisons
Crimaldi is predominantly a left-footed player who operates on the right wing, though he has recently been transitioning into a second striker role. His style of play has drawn comparisons to Domenico Berardi and Arjen Robben. Like Berardi, Crimaldi is a skilled dribbler with excellent pace and a lethal shot. His ability to take set-pieces and penalties further underscores his versatility and composure.
International Allegiance
Initially part of Germany’s U17 setup, Crimaldi was persuaded to switch allegiance to Italy. The Italian Football Federation offered him a central role in their youth setup, and he has since embraced the Azzurri, recently wearing the number 10 jersey for Italy’s U18 team in a goalless draw against Spain. His decision to represent Italy highlights the nation’s proactive approach to securing dual-nationality talents.
Interest from Juventus and Bologna
Crimaldi’s performances have caught the attention of Serie A clubs, including Juventus and Bologna. Bologna became aware of his talent during a summer tournament, while Juventus, known for their extensive scouting network in Germany, has been monitoring him for over a year. Both clubs are reportedly keen to secure the services of the promising young forward.
The Future of Alessandro Crimaldi
With his technical skills, tactical intelligence, and ability to perform under pressure, Crimaldi is poised for a bright future. Whether he continues his development in the Bundesliga or makes a move to Serie A, the 16-year-old has the potential to become a key player for both club and country. His journey is just beginning, but the comparisons to Berardi and Robben suggest he could be destined for greatness.
