Ciro Immobile (Part 2)

GdLU...6zz5

23 Mar 2024

Ciro Immobile (Part 2)

Throughout the Champions League campaign, Immobile proved to be a key contributor, netting four goals in six matches. He scored in a 3–0 away win over Anderlecht, a 4–1 home win over Galatasaray, and a 1–1 home draw against Anderlecht, helping Borussia Dortmund secure qualification as group winners.Immobile played a crucial role in a 2–2 home draw with Wolfsburg, assisting the first goal and scoring the second for Dortmund.

Ciro Immobile made a significant move to Lazio for a fee of 8.75 million, with an additional 700,000 paid in commission to agents. His debut for Lazio on 21 August was marked with a goal in a thrilling 4–3 away victory against Atalanta. Despite an impressive season where he scored 23 league goals in 36 appearances and added 3 goals in the Coppa Italia, he narrowly missed out on winning the Capocannoniere, losing it to Edin Džeko of cross-town rivals Roma, who scored 29 league goals.
The following season, Immobile continued to showcase his prowess in front of goal. On 13 August 2017, he scored both goals in the Supercoppa Italiana final, leading Lazio to a 3–2 victory over Juventus. His standout performance of the season came on 10 September, where he netted a hat-trick and provided an assist in a resounding 4–1 home win over Milan. Immobile's contributions were duly rewarded as he extended his contract with Lazio until 2022 on 21 October.

Immobile enjoyed remarkable success, scoring prolifically and breaking records. Notably, he scored four goals in the first half away to SPAL, becoming the first Lazio player in 16 years to achieve multiple hat-tricks in a season. His exploits continued in the Europa League, where he bagged a hat-trick against Steaua București, helping Lazio secure a place in the round of 16. Immobile's remarkable season culminated in him equalling Giorgio Chinaglia's record for most goals scored by a Lazio player in a single season, with 36 goals in all competitions, sharing the Capocannoniere title with Inter's Mauro Icardi and finishing as the UEFA Europa League's top scorer.

In the subsequent seasons, Immobile maintained his prolific form, consistently finding the back of the net for Lazio. He reached significant milestones, such as scoring his 100th goal for Lazio in a match against Milan and his 150th goal in a home win over Parma. Notably, he set a new Serie A record for most goals scored in a single season, equaling Gino Rossetti and Gonzalo Higuaín's all-time mark with 36 goals in the 2019-2020 season. Additionally, he clinched the European Golden Shoe, becoming the first Italian player from Serie A to win the award since Francesco Totti in 2007.

Immobile consistency and prolificacy continued in the subsequent seasons, where he further etched his name into Lazio record books. Notable achievements include becoming Lazio's all-time leading goalscorer, surpassing Silvio Piola, and setting a new record for most goals scored in Serie A in six different seasons. He also demonstrated his prowess in European competition, scoring his 200th goal for Lazio in the UEFA Champions League and securing vital goals in the knockout stages against formidable opponents like Bayern Munich.
Throughout his tenure at Lazio, Ciro Immobile has established himself as one of the most lethal strikers in Serie A history, consistently delivering exceptional performances and etching his name in the annals of the club's storied history.

Ciro Immobile's journey with the Italian national team has been marked by several memorable moments and contributions. His senior international career began on 2 March 2014, when he received his first call-up to the senior national team by Cesare Prandelli for a friendly match against Spain. He made his debut in that match as a substitute, despite Spain eventually winning 1–0.
Immobile's inclusion in Italy's squad for the 2014 FIFA World Cup was a significant milestone. He made his competitive debut in Italy's opening match against England and scored his first official international goal in a friendly victory against the Netherlands later that year.

He continued to represent Italy at major tournaments, including UEFA Euro 2016 and UEFA Euro 2020. At Euro 2020, Immobile played a crucial role in Italy's successful campaign, scoring goals in the group stage matches against Turkey and Switzerland. He also provided key contributions in the semi-final against Spain, assisting Federico Chiesa's goal. Italy went on to win the tournament, with Immobile playing a part in their victory over England in the final.
In September 2023, Immobile received another honor when he was named the new captain of the Italy national football team by manager Luciano Spalletti, replacing Leonardo Bonucci. This appointment reflects the trust and leadership qualities that Immobile brings to the team.

Ciro Immobile's versatility and skill set make him a formidable force on the field. As a main striker, he is capable of playing across the front line, utilizing his speed and offensive instincts to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. His ability to make intelligent runs off the ball and exploit spaces in the defense is a key aspect of his playing style.
Immobile's eye for goal and finishing ability with both feet, coupled with his physical presence and aerial prowess, make him a constant threat in the box. He is known for his accurate shooting, often aiming for the far post with precision. Additionally, he possesses solid technique and is effective in the air, allowing him to capitalize on crosses and set-piece opportunities.

Beyond his scoring prowess, Immobile is also recognized for his work rate and defensive contribution. He is willing to press opponents and chase down the ball when not in possession, showcasing his commitment to the team's defensive efforts. Furthermore, his ability to link up play and provide assists for his teammates adds another dimension to his game.
Immobile proficiency from the penalty spot further enhances his value as a goal scorer. His consistent goal-scoring record has earned him the admiration of fans, earning him the nickname King Ciro among Lazio supporters. Overall, his combination of skills and dedication solidifies his status as one of the best forwards in football history.