Mattia De Sciglio eyes move abroad as free agent
Veteran Italian defender Mattia De Sciglio is targeting a move to a foreign league as he plots his next career move as a free agent. The 34-year-old full-back, who is without a club following the expiry of his short-term deal with Empoli, expressed his desire for a fresh challenge outside of Italy in an interview with Sky Calcio Unplugged. De Sciglio stated that a primary motivation is to provide a new experience for his young family.
De Sciglio referenced his previous stint abroad with Olympique Lyonnais during the 2022-23 season, which he described as a positive and enjoyable chapter in his career. His time in France was cut short by a serious knee injury, but he has since returned to fitness. The defender is now seeking a new project after making just five appearances for Empoli following his return to Serie A in the January transfer window.
The player boasts a distinguished career in Italy, having emerged from the AC Milan academy and making over 100 appearances for the Rossoneri before a high-profile move to Juventus in 2017. During his six seasons in Turin, De Sciglio won three Serie A titles and two Coppa Italia trophies, often deployed as a versatile defensive option by then-manager Massimiliano Allegri. His career, however, has been frequently interrupted by injuries, limiting his playing time in recent years.
His availability on a free transfer could present an attractive, low-risk opportunity for clubs seeking an experienced defender with a proven pedigree at the highest level. According to the interview, De Sciglio is particularly intrigued by the prospect of playing under a coach like Luciano Spalletti, whose tactical approach differs from the more pragmatic style he was accustomed to under Allegri. This openness to a new footballing philosophy underscores his desire for a complete change of environment.
In the same interview, De Sciglio also previewed the upcoming Serie A clash between his two former clubs, AC Milan and Juventus, describing it as a highly-charged fixture regardless of Champions League implications. He acknowledged the contrasting styles of the two teams and the significant improvement shown by Juventus since Spalletti's arrival. While he did not specify a preferred destination, his comments clearly signal an intention to continue his playing career outside of his homeland for the first time since his loan spell in Lyon.
