Tommaso Cassandro

We have reached the right backs, and we first start off with Tommaso Cassandro. A young right back, Tommaso has potential and has what it takes to start in Serie B.

Born in Dolo on January 9, 2000, Cassandro played for Bologna’s Primavera squad. Growing up near Venice, Cassandro joined Bologna when he was 15, and played there until he turned pro.

He was a starter for the U17’s during the season, and also scored 5 goals during the season. During this time, Cassandro actually played as a center midfielder, not as right back. That changed when he was 17, while playing for the U19′, Cassandro played some games as right back, but still mainly played as a defensive midfielder.

His last year at Bologna’s youth squad was his best. Playing every match of the season, he took Bologna as winners of their league, losing only once. He won two trophies that season, winning the Supercoppa Primavera against Pescara 5-1. Bologna’s U19’s also won the Viareggio Cup in penalties against Genoa. Cassandro scored the last penalty for Bologna, and after their keeper saved the next, Bologna were champions.

Cassandro proved that he could play at the pro level. After a successful youth career at Bologna, the club loaned him to Novara in Serie C. His pro debut came on August 26, 2019 against Juventus U23. Cassandro played regularly, learning more as it was his first season as a pro. Novara finished 7th, and qualified for playoffs.

The right back played in the Round of 16 to the semi finals. A 2-1 loss to eventual playoff winners Reggiana saw Novara out of contention for promotion. It was, however, a very good debut season.

Cittadella, who are good at scouting quality players, signed Cassandro on a permanent deal. It was a big step up from Serie C, and Cassandro didn’t have it easy to start. While only playing 14 matches during the season, Cassandro did pick up an assist in his first Cittadella game, coming against Pordenone. An injury in March put him out for two months, which saw Cassandro only appear in two more games.

At the end of the season came a new surprise. He got his first Italian youth national team call up in June! For two friendlies against San Marino and the senior Italian team, Cassandro was chosen to represent the Italian U20’s for those friendlies. He played 67 minutes in a 1-0 win against San Marino.

Still young, Cassandro is looking to prove himself and play at his best ability, like what we saw at Bologna. We are excited for Tommaso’s future!