Spezia vs Juventus: 3 key Spezia players that could stun Bianconeri

2. Daniele Verde

Well-grown facial hair, widely known as a beard, covering half of his face has become the true identification of Daniele Verde in the 2021/22 season. Furthermore, there is that determined look on his face — one that should scare off opponents.

Formerly of AS Roma, the 25-year-old forward spent two years at AEK Athens after finally parting ways with I Giallorossi in 2019. Inspiring performances in Greece caught the eyes of the Spezia directors, who went on to secure the services of the Italian in the 2020 summer transfer window on a loan deal with an obligation to buy.

Spezia met the demands, paying €800,000 charged by the obligation-to-buy option this summer and sealing the permanent move for Verde on the back of his successful loan spell, where he helped the club retain its status as a top-tier team in Italian football by netting six goals (per FBref.com).

Left-footed, Verde prefers to operate from the right as an inside forward. Earlier this season, he took the spectators by utter awe after triumphantly performing a bicycle kick in Spezia’s 6-1 humiliation at Lazio. Apart from that one goal, he has named another goal contribution in the form of an assist, providing one in their 2-2 draw against Cagliari on the opening matchday of the new season.

Always vying for the limelight, Verde will surely be sensing the opportunity to astound the visitors. And being on the right side of the minnows, he, to let the big boys know his exact value, is likely to play with his full strength and rejuvenated belief.