In a recent interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, Riccardo Saponara, a 33-year-old Italian footballer, opened up about his career journey, experiences with legendary coaches, and his plans for the future as he navigates life as a free agent. After leaving Ankaragücü in Turkey on February 26, 2025, Saponara expressed his thoughts about the upcoming summer as a crucial period for evaluating new opportunities.
"I’m waiting for the summer to evaluate new opportunities," he stated, emphasizing his readiness to embrace fresh challenges in his career.
Saponara's football journey is marked by several notable experiences, particularly during his time at clubs like AC Milan, Fiorentina, and Empoli, where he received invaluable mentorship from some of the most respected coaches in football. Among them is Massimiliano Allegri, who Saponara regards highly. He described Allegri as "brilliant, intuitive, and with an extraordinary personality." Saponara fondly recalled how Allegri made him a starter for the first time in a derby but wanted to relieve the pressure by waiting until after the final training session to inform him.
"He reads people and players like few others," Saponara added, appreciating Allegri's ability to nurture talent.
Another central figure in Saponara's life has been Kakà, a teammate during his time at Milan. For Saponara, Kakà was not just a colleague but an idol—a figure he revered almost like a deity. "I struggled to relate to him; for me, he was almost a deity," he shared. The Brazilian superstar recognized Saponara's admiration and took him under his wing, laying the groundwork for a mentorship that would shape Saponara's professional ethos. "He taught me discipline, work ethic, and attention to detail," said Saponara, reflecting on the profound influence Kakà had on him.
Saponara's career was punctuated by many ups and downs, with significant moments that served as milestones. One of those was his relationship with Maurizio Sarri at Empoli, where Sarri predicted Saponara would have a significant career in football. "He changed my mindset and drew out the best in all players," Saponara remarked, recollecting the moment Sarri had told him about his future potential, which ultimately proved prophetic when he joined Milan shortly after.
In his time at Fiorentina, Saponara developed a bond with Dusan Vlahovic, who humorously nicknamed him with terms like "prof," "maestro," and "pittore," reflecting their close friendship amidst the competitive environment of football. Saponara's time in Florence was not just about football; it allowed him to explore another passion—the Renaissance. He often frequented the Uffizi Gallery, where he absorbed the artistic beauty of works like Botticelli's Primavera.
"I had the chance to visit the Uffizi, a place of peace for me, where I could recharge my adrenaline after matches," Saponara noted, revealing how his love for art intertwined with his football journey.
Reflecting on his experiences, Saponara also paid tribute to his late teammate Davide Astori, mentioning the profound impact Astori had on both him and the team. "He was a reference point not only for the locker room but for the entire city," said Saponara. The loss of Astori, a beloved figure in Florence, reminded Saponara of the deeper connections that bind teammates and communities together.
Saponara’s career might not have followed a linear trajectory, yet he remains optimistic and eager to re-establish himself in the world of football. As he enters this new chapter, he carries with him the lessons learned from his mentors, the memories of a friendship with peers, and a deep appreciation for the art and beauty of the cities that have shaped him. The journey continues, and Saponara is ready to embrace what lies ahead.
