Cristian Volpato, the 20-year-old talent who recently illuminated Brescia-Sassuolo with a spectacular solo goal, is making waves in Italian football. Born in Australia to a family with Venetian roots, Volpato arrived at Roma at 15 and blossomed under Mourinho before moving to Sassuolo in 2023.
Reflecting on his recent performance in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Volpato modestly stated, “I might have scored something like that in youth teams, but not as a professional.” His goal, a right-to-left run beating two defenders before curling a left-footed shot into the far corner, was pivotal in Sassuolo’s 5-2 victory.
When asked about Sassuolo’s current form, Volpato expressed confidence: “I think we’re showing our true potential. We have quality and we’re proving to be dangerous.” He credits coach Fabio Grosso and his staff for the team’s physical dominance, noting, “We run a lot in training.”
Discussing his preferred position, Volpato revealed, “In youth teams, I played as an attacking midfielder, which is my favorite role. But since my debut with Roma, I’ve played on the right, and I like it.”
Volpato also shared insights on his relationship with Domenico Berardi, saying, “We’re both left-footed, we like to cut inside towards the goal, and curl shots to the far post. But he’s ten times better!” He recounted Berardi’s advice during the match: “Shoot to the far post!” and his jubilant reaction after the goal.
The young talent maintains a close relationship with Francesco Totti, who regularly offers advice: “He tells me, ‘Play simple in your own half, do what you want in the attacking half. And try to shoot – if you don’t shoot, you don’t score.’ He’s right.”
Reflecting on his Australian background, Volpato acknowledged the challenges: “It’s difficult. Those born in Europe are where a footballer wants to be. In Australia, the level isn’t high, and you’re very far away. Everyone there dreams of Europe.”
Volpato also fondly remembered his time at AC Milan Sydney academy under Andrea Icardi: “I was there for 11 years, training five times a week, sometimes twice a day. I always wanted to play. He always believed in me.”
