Italian midfielder Federico Coletta has completed a permanent transfer to Portuguese side Benfica for a fee of €1 million, the club confirmed. The 19-year-old departs Roma after spending his youth career with the Serie A club. Coletta, a Rome native, signed with Benfica just one year after captaining Italy’s Under-17 team to a European Championship title.
Coletta expressed his enjoyment of life in Portugal, noting the club’s support in helping him adjust to a new environment after leaving his “comfort zone” at Roma. He playfully recounted teasing his Benfica teammates about Italy’s 3-0 victory over Portugal in the Under-17 European Championship final in June 2024, a match where he featured prominently alongside current Azzurri star Camarda. Despite the recent elimination of Italy’s Under-19 team, Coletta remains proud of his achievements with the national youth sides.
He recently completed his high school exams, achieving a score of 73 on his scientific studies, balancing his football commitments with his education. Coletta described his parents and brother as his biggest supporters, emphasizing their crucial role in his career and his desire to make them proud. He praised former Roma youth coach Gianluca Falsini and Italy Under-17 manager Massimiliano Favo for their contributions to his development.
Interestingly, Coletta shared a positive anecdote about his interaction with José Mourinho, who was familiar with the Benfica youth players and frequently joined them for meals. On the pitch, Coletta is a versatile player, deployed in various midfield roles by Benfica’s coaching staff, including as a mezzala, attacking midfielder, and right winger. He draws inspiration from players like Pedri and Jude Bellingham, aiming to emulate their technical skills and attacking prowess. The transfer represents a significant step in Coletta’s career, offering him the opportunity to develop further in a competitive league.
