Domenico Berardi has made a triumphant return to the scoresheet, ending an 11-month goal drought that dated back to his brace against Udinese on December 12, 2023. The Sassuolo number 10 marked his comeback by converting a penalty in a crucial match against Mantova, demonstrating that his scoring touch remains intact.
Fabio Grosso, Sassuolo’s manager, showed confidence in Berardi by including him in the starting lineup for the first time this season. The forward’s impact was immediate, as he won a penalty around the hour mark after being fouled by substitute Panizzi. Berardi stepped up to take the spot-kick, placing it perfectly in the right corner to secure three vital points for his team.
Calciomercato detail how this goal represents a significant milestone for Berardi, who has endured a challenging period due to injury. His perseverance through months of rehabilitation has finally paid off, allowing him to once again experience the thrill of finding the back of the net.
Berardi’s prowess from the penalty spot is well-documented. Since the 2012/13 season, only Cristiano Ronaldo (63) and Ciro Immobile (52) have scored more penalties across Europe’s top five leagues and their respective second divisions.
The Italian forward’s return to form is not only a boost for Sassuolo but also attracts attention in the transfer market. Besiktas has already expressed concrete interest, while Atalanta continues to monitor his situation closely. However, Sassuolo, aiming for an immediate return to Serie A, may be reluctant to part with their captain during the winter transfer window.
