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Italian retired professional football player Federico Balzaretti was born on December 6, 1981. His career has been characterized by commitment, adaptability, and a strong passion for the game. Balzaretti has moved into a new position as Vicenza’s director of football after retiring from active play, bringing his extensive managerial background to the game.
Career
Balzaretti’s football career began in the prestigious Torino youth system, where he proved himself as a skilled player. His first taste of professional football came during loan stints with Siena and Varese when he proved his mettle as a left-sided full-back. His career as an Italian football player navigating its difficult terrain was made possible by the expertise he gained throughout his loan spells.
Returning to Turin, Balzaretti spent a season in Serie A and two in Serie B, gaining valuable exposure to the dynamics of top-tier and second-tier football. His performances did not go unnoticed, and his trajectory took a significant turn when he joined Juventus.
During his tenure with Juventus, Balzaretti contributed to the team’s success, playing a crucial role in Serie A and the prestigious UEFA Champions League. However, the joy of winning the Scudetto was short-lived as it was later revoked due to the infamous events of Calciopoli.
Despite the disappointments, Balzaretti’s fortitude was evident as he carried on practicing in the lesser leagues and was promoted the following year. Fiorentina was impressed by his left-back abilities and field versatility, which resulted in a 2007 move. After a brief stay at Fiorentina, Balzaretti moved to Palermo, where he participated in the UEFA Europa League to demonstrate his skills on the continent.
In 2010, Balzaretti received the ultimate honor for any footballer – a call-up to the Italy national team. His inclusion in the squad paved the way for participation in the UEFA Euro 2012, where Italy reached the final but finished as runners-up. The summer of 2012 brought about another chapter in Balzaretti’s club career as he made a move to AS Roma.
However, his time with AS Roma was marked by the challenges of persistent injuries. Despite facing physical setbacks, Balzaretti exhibited commendable determination on the field. On August 12, 2015, after a career spanning 221 appearances and four goals in Serie A and 130 appearances with three goals in Serie B, Balzaretti made the heartfelt decision to retire from professional football.
Post-retirement, Federico Balzaretti did not sever his ties with the game that defined his life. Instead, he embraced a new role as the director of football for Vicenza.
Who was Federico Balzaretti’s First Wife?
Eleonora Abbagnato is the first wife of Federico Balzaretti. They got married in Palermo in 2011. The couple have two children.
