Cesare Casadei, Torino’s newest signing, has expressed his excitement and gratitude for joining the Serie A club. The young Italian midfielder, who recently completed his transfer from Chelsea, shared his thoughts on returning to Italy and his aspirations with his new team in an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport.
“I wasn’t just waiting to return to Italy – I was yearning for it,” he revealed. “For a couple of seasons, I was trying to come back, but for one reason or another, I was being blocked. The years in England were incredibly valuable, but now is the perfect moment to challenge myself in Serie A.”
His choice of Torino was not accidental but deeply considered. “From the first day, Torino was the club that showed immense faith in me,” Casadei explained. “Starting with President Urbano Cairo, who I want to thank for helping me fulfil my desire to return to Italy.”
The transfer process was complex, but Casadei remained committed. “The negotiations had many ups and downs throughout January,” he shared. “But a beautiful relationship was born with Torino, especially with Director Davide Vagnati. We connected immediately.”
Discussing his decision, Casadei was unequivocal about the club’s role in his choice. “It was decisive and incredibly important. I needed a club that would make me feel significant. I arrive from a semester at Chelsea where I didn’t play much, so I needed to rediscover my confidence. Torino pursued me intensely, and it was a great honour.”
His connection with coach Paolo Vanoli was another crucial factor. “I knew him from his time with Conte at Inter when I was a youth team player,” Casadei noted. “I would sometimes train with the first team, so I understand what he expects and how he wants the game to be played.”
Reflecting on his personal growth, Casadei offered insights into his character. “Football represents more than 80% of my life,” he said. “I’m a calm guy who leads a quiet life – after training, I simply return home.”
His aspirations extend beyond the immediate football context. “I’ve paused my studies after completing high school, but who knows about the future? I’d like to potentially enroll in university someday,” he shared candidly.
The young midfielder’s respect for Torino’s rich history is profound. “Entering Filadelfia was emotional,” he remarked. “You can sense its importance – it’s a place that connects you to the club’s history. I’ll visit Superga soon to understand even more about this jersey and these colours.”
When discussing his playing style, Casadei is modest yet confident. “I’ve played a lot in a two-man midfield,” he explained. “I’ve learned to play in multiple positions. I like playing in the centre of midfield.”
His perspective on being labelled a “complete midfielder” is refreshingly humble. “I like the term,” he said, “but I prefer to let others judge me.”
Reflecting on his experiences with coaches like Enzo Maresca and Mauricio Pochettino, Casadei highlighted key lessons. “Maresca taught me a different way of seeing football,” he noted. “Pochettino showed me the importance of adding passion to everything you do.”
Looking towards the future, his national team ambitions are clear. “The national team is my goal, 100%,” Casadei stated. “Wearing the Azzurri shirt is priceless. I’ll think about it when the time comes, but for now, I’m focused on how I can get there day by day.”
Casadei’s journey represents more than just a football transfer – it’s a narrative of a young athlete’s strategic career navigation, deep love for the game, and unwavering commitment to personal growth.
