Eight Serie A starters younger than Francesco Camarda include Milan's Ballon d'Or winner Gianni Rivera, who made his debut at 15.

 

Milan's Young Prospect Makes His Mark

Francesco Camarda, aged 16 years and 241 days, is set to make his first start in Serie A for AC Milan. This milestone highlights his rapid progress through the youth system and positions him as one of the youngest starters in the club's storied history. Camarda will break the record previously held by Gianluigi Donnarumma, Milan’s former goalkeeper prodigy, by just one day to become the youngest Serie A starter for the Rossoneri in the modern era of the three-point league system.

Context and Coach's Decision

Milan coach Paulo Fonseca confirmed Camarda's start during a pre-match press conference, a significant decision influenced by injuries within the squad. Both Alvaro Morata and Luka Jovic are sidelined, leaving Tammy Abraham as the only experienced forward option, though he is not fully fit due to a recent shoulder injury. This context paved the way for Camarda’s historic debut.

Camarda’s Place in Serie A History

Camarda's debut places him among an elite group of young players who have started Serie A matches before turning 17. Although eight players were younger than him when making their first full appearances, this milestone underscores his potential as a future star in Italian football.

The Youngest Serie A Starters

The youngest Serie A starter on record is Amadeo Amadei, who began for Roma in 1937 at just 15 years and 288 days. Following him, Gianni Rivera, a legend and Ballon d’Or winner, debuted for Alessandria at 15 years and 290 days in 1959. Pietro Pellegri made his first appearance at 16 years and 78 days for Genoa in 2017, even scoring against Roma. The list continues with notable names like Silvio Piola and Gino Colaussi.

Camarda's Entry Among Young Elite

Camarda joins this distinguished list as the ninth youngest starter. Players like Honest Ahanor (Genoa, 2024, 16 years and 219 days) and Giuseppe Sacchi (Milan, 1942, 16 years and 232 days) share similar milestones. Notably, Camarda surpasses the record of Donnarumma, the goalkeeper who started for Milan in 2015 at 16 years and 242 days.

This debut marks not just an individual achievement for Camarda but also a testament to AC Milan’s dedication to nurturing young talent and providing opportunities at the highest level of competition.