Once regarded as one of the best rising defenders in Italy, Mattia Caldara is now trying to rebuild his career at Venezia after enduring several injury-plagued seasons.
The center back rose to fame at Atalanta, and then earned a switch to Juventus. However, he was never given a chance in Turin.
The 27-year-old was immediately loaned back to La Dea, before being shipped towards Milan in 2018 in favor of Leonardo Bonucci’s return.
However, Caldara spent few weeks at Juventus during pre-season, and he still cherishes his experience, as it allowed him the opportunity to work alongside his idol Giorgio Chiellini.
“Chiellini has played a unique role in my career from the very first moment,” said the former Bianconeri player in a column that he wrote at Cronache di Spogliatoio via JuventusNews24.
“In December 2016, we lost 3-1 against Juventus. I’m a shy man, so I usually don’t go asking for the shirt at the end of the match. I do not want to bother anyone.
“That day, after the match, they interview me, and I tell them that unfortunately I didn’t have the courage to ask Giorgio for his number 3.
“I put my backpack on my shoulder and head towards the bus. Then I hear our team manager asking me to return. They told me that Chiellini heard the interview and wants to give me his shirt. I still keep it in the drawer.
“When I signed with the Bianconeri, he was the one who immediately gave me advice, especially before the friendlies during the USA pre-season tour,” concluded the defender.
After signing for Milan in 2018, Caldara was barely able to feature due to recurring injuries, and he tried to resurrect his career with a loan stint at Atalanta last season.
Nevertheless, he didn’t find enough playing time in Bergamo upon his return, but this season, he’s playing a significant role in Venezia’s battle against relegation.
