Juventus Next Gen midfielder Giacomo Faticanti has been included in the Italy national team squad for upcoming friendlies against Luxembourg and Greece, a recognition of the club’s successful youth development model. The call-up, alongside fellow Juventus Next Gen player Giovanni Daffara, highlights a strategy focused on nurturing domestic talent and potentially building a future core for both Juventus and the Italian national team.
Faticanti, a 2004-born central midfielder, earned his place in the squad after a strong season with Juventus Next Gen in Serie C, making 38 appearances and scoring three goals. His performances demonstrated consistency and solidity, contributing to the most stable season in the history of Juventus’ reserve team. He previously made history by becoming the first Italian player born after January 1st, 2004 to feature in a Europa League match, making his debut for Roma against HJK Helsinki under José Mourinho. In 2021, he was named among the 60 best young talents by The Guardian.
Currently, Faticanti is co-owned by Lecce, with Juventus holding an option to purchase his contract permanently. The club’s intention, according to reports, is to exercise that option and then loan the player to a Serie B club to continue his development. However, this plan is contingent on the decisions of Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri.
Daffara, a goalkeeper, has also been rewarded for his performances. He has been secured by Juventus until 2028 and the club are considering a loan to a Serie A team to further his development. His time at Avellino saw him displace the experienced Iannarilli, playing 25 matches, keeping three clean sheets and saving one penalty. The success of both players is seen as vindication of Juventus’ investment in their Next Gen program, which is intended to provide a pathway for young Italian players to the first team and the national side. This approach is being championed by Juventus chairman John Elkan, who aims to restore a strong national identity within the club.
