A record 21 British footballers join Italian clubs this season
This season has brought a record 21 British players to Italian clubs, including 15 English players in Serie A. Their growing presence reflects a shift in how British footballers and Italian clubs view moves abroad, with earlier players helping make the path more familiar.
Commentator Adam Summerton points to trailblazers such as Liam Henderson and Chris Smalling, as well as Italian clubs’ regard for Scottish players’ work ethic and team spirit. Successes by Lewis Ferguson and Scott McTominay, who won Serie A’s midfielder and player of the season awards respectively, have strengthened that reputation. Players’ willingness to embrace Italian language and culture, and their pride in clubs’ traditions, have also helped attract others.
- A record 21 British players are with Italian clubs this season.
- Scottish players’ success has improved perceptions of British talent.
- Players are increasingly embracing Italian language, food and football culture.
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For many years, Italy's football clubs rarely recruited British players, but this season marks a turning point with 21 joining Italian clubs, including 15 in the top division Serie A. This represents a significant change in how both British footballers and Italian clubs view moves abroad.
A handful of earlier arrivals paved the way for others to follow, including Chris Smalling and Liam Henderson, whose successes made the prospect less daunting. More recent players have reinforced the trend, with Scott McTominay winning Italy's player of the season award and Lewis Ferguson earning midfielder of the season.
Italian clubs have developed particular appreciation for the work ethic and team spirit of British players, whilst the players themselves have shown commitment to learning the Italian language and embracing the clubs' traditions. These mutual adjustments have created a welcoming environment that encourages more players to consider the move.
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Originally published by The Guardian as “Why are so many British footballers playing in Serie A?”.