Welcome to the world of Cosenza Calcio, a club that has left an indelible mark on the Italian football landscape. From its humble beginnings to its current aspirations, Cosenza Calcio’s journey is a testament to the passion, resilience, and unwavering spirit of its players, fans, and the city it represents.
Throughout this exploration, we will delve into the rich history of the club, analyze its current squad, examine its financial situation, and uncover the unique culture that surrounds Cosenza Calcio. We will also explore the club’s transfer strategy, its passionate fan base, and its plans for the future.
Team History
Cosenza Calcio, officially Associazione Sportiva Cosenza Calcio 1914, is an Italian professional football club based in Cosenza, Calabria. Founded in 1914, the club has a rich history that spans over a century, marked by both triumphs and setbacks.
Cosenza Calcio’s early years were spent in regional leagues, with the club gradually rising through the ranks. In 1961, they achieved promotion to Serie B for the first time, and in 1964, they made their Serie A debut. The club spent several seasons in the top flight, with their best finish being a 10th place in the 1967-68 season.
Notable Players and Managers
- Roberto Pruzzo: The Italian striker played for Cosenza Calcio in the 1980s, scoring 51 goals in 117 appearances.
- Massimo Mariotto: The Italian goalkeeper played for Cosenza Calcio in the 1990s, making over 200 appearances for the club.
- Pierpaolo Bisoli: The Italian manager led Cosenza Calcio to promotion to Serie B in 2018.
Controversies
Cosenza Calcio has been involved in several controversies over the years, including:
- In 1986, the club was relegated to Serie C1 due to financial irregularities.
- In 2011, the club was declared bankrupt and was forced to restart in the regional leagues.
Despite these setbacks, Cosenza Calcio has managed to rebuild and return to Serie B, where they currently compete.
Current Squad
Cosenza Calcio’s current squad boasts a blend of experienced veterans and promising youngsters. The team’s depth and versatility provide manager Davide Dionigi with a wide range of options to choose from.
The following table lists the current Cosenza Calcio squad, sorted by position and appearances:
Squad List
| Name | Position | Nationality | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michael Venturi | Goalkeeper | Italy | 20 | 0 | 0 |
| Alessandro Micai | Goalkeeper | Italy | 15 | 0 | 0 |
| Salvatore Monaco | Defender | Italy | 25 | 2 | 1 |
| Andrea Tiritiello | Defender | Italy | 23 | 1 | 2 |
| Luca Bittante | Defender | Italy | 22 | 0 | 0 |
| Alessandro Liotti | Defender | Italy | 20 | 0 | 1 |
| Mauro Vigorito | Defender | Italy | 18 | 0 | 0 |
| Rodney Kongolo | Defender | Netherlands | 15 | 0 | 0 |
| Marco Brescianini | Midfielder | Italy | 25 | 4 | 3 |
| Luca Palmiero | Midfielder | Italy | 23 | 2 | 1 |
| Michele Cavion | Midfielder | Italy | 22 | 1 | 2 |
| Emanuele Ndoj | Midfielder | Albania | 20 | 0 | 1 |
| Alessandro Gerbo | Midfielder | Italy | 18 | 0 | 0 |
| Christian D’Urso | Midfielder | Italy | 15 | 0 | 0 |
| Federico Vaiarelli | Forward | Italy | 25 | 7 | 2 |
| Joaquín Larrivey | Forward | Argentina | 23 | 5 | 1 |
| Giuseppe Caso | Forward | Italy | 22 | 4 | 0 |
| Lamin Jallow | Forward | Gambia | 20 | 3 | 1 |
| Mattia Finotto | Forward | Italy | 18 | 0 | 0 |
Stadium and Facilities
Stadio San Vito-Gigi Marulla is the home stadium of Cosenza Calcio. It is located in the city of Cosenza, Italy, and has a capacity of 24,209 spectators.
The stadium was opened in 1964 and has undergone several renovations over the years. The most recent renovation was completed in 2017, and it included the installation of a new roof and seats.
Seating Areas
The stadium has four seating areas: the Curva Nord, Curva Sud, Tribuna Ovest, and Tribuna Est.
- The Curva Nord is the most passionate section of the stadium and is home to the Cosenza Calcio ultras.
- The Curva Sud is also a popular section of the stadium and is known for its lively atmosphere.
- The Tribuna Ovest is the main stand of the stadium and is home to the Cosenza Calcio VIPs.
- The Tribuna Est is the other stand of the stadium and is home to the visiting fans.
VIP Boxes
The stadium has 10 VIP boxes, which are located in the Tribuna Ovest.
The VIP boxes are equipped with a variety of amenities, including a private bathroom, a kitchenette, and a television.
Press Areas
The stadium has a dedicated press area, which is located in the Tribuna Est.
The press area is equipped with a variety of amenities, including a work desk, a telephone, and a television.
Opening Date
The stadium was officially opened on 13 September 1964.
Renovations
The stadium has undergone several renovations over the years, including:
- A renovation in 1990, which included the installation of a new roof and seats.
- A renovation in 2004, which included the installation of a new lighting system.
- A renovation in 2017, which included the installation of a new roof and seats.
Notable Events
The stadium has hosted a number of notable events, including:
- The 1991 Coppa Italia Final
- The 2004 Supercoppa Italiana
- The 2017 UEFA Europa League Final
Club Culture: Cosenza Calcio
Cosenza Calcio boasts a passionate and dedicated fan base that creates a vibrant and energetic atmosphere at matches. The club’s unique culture and traditions are deeply rooted in the local community and have been passed down through generations of supporters.
One of the most distinctive aspects of Cosenza Calcio’s culture is its passionate fan base. Known as the “Ultras,” these supporters are renowned for their unwavering support and enthusiastic chants. They create a deafening atmosphere at home matches, filling the stadium with a sea of red and black and chanting songs that celebrate the club’s history and traditions.
Fan Chants
The Ultras have a vast repertoire of chants that they sing throughout matches. These chants range from traditional folk songs to modern anthems, and they often incorporate local dialect and references to the club’s history. One of the most popular chants is “Forza Cosenza,” which translates to “Come on Cosenza.” This chant is sung at the start of every match and serves as a rallying cry for the team and the fans.
Rituals
In addition to their passionate chants, the Ultras also engage in a number of rituals that have become synonymous with Cosenza Calcio. One of these rituals is the “bandiera,” which is a large flag that is displayed at the center of the Curva Sud, the section of the stadium where the Ultras are located. The bandiera is a symbol of the club’s unity and pride, and it is often used to lead the fans in chants and celebrations.
Rivalries and Alliances
Cosenza Calcio has developed rivalries with several clubs over the years, primarily due to geographical proximity and historical encounters. The most notable rivalry is with Crotone, a fellow Calabrian club. The two teams have a long-standing rivalry that dates back to the 1960s, and matches between them are often heated and passionate.
In addition to Crotone, Cosenza Calcio also has rivalries with other clubs in the region, such as Reggina, Catanzaro, and Vibonese. These rivalries are often fueled by a combination of local pride and historical grievances.
Alliances and Partnerships
Cosenza Calcio has also formed alliances and partnerships with other clubs over the years. One notable partnership is with Salernitana, another club from the Campania region. The two clubs have a long-standing relationship and have often collaborated on various projects, including player exchanges and joint marketing initiatives.
Financial Performance
Cosenza Calcio’s financial performance has fluctuated over the past few years, influenced by factors such as league performance, player transfers, and operating expenses.
Revenue Streams
The club’s primary revenue streams include:
- Matchday revenue from ticket sales and concessions
- Television broadcasting rights
- Sponsorship and advertising deals
- Player sales and loans
Expenses
Major expenses for Cosenza Calcio include:
- Player salaries and bonuses
- Transfer fees
- Operating costs (e.g., stadium maintenance, travel, administration)
Profitability
Cosenza Calcio’s profitability has varied, depending on the balance between revenue and expenses. In recent years, the club has often operated at a loss due to high player acquisition costs and limited revenue growth. However, the club has implemented cost-cutting measures and explored new revenue streams to improve its financial stability.
Transfer History
Cosenza Calcio’s transfer history has witnessed a blend of notable signings, departures, and loan deals that have shaped the club’s fortunes over the years.
The club’s transfer strategy has often focused on acquiring experienced players on free transfers or low-cost deals, while also promoting promising youngsters from its academy.
Notable Signings
- Andrea Camplone (2017): The experienced midfielder joined from Benevento and played a key role in Cosenza’s promotion to Serie B.
- Federico Vazquez (2018): The Argentine forward signed from Palermo and became a fan favorite with his goalscoring prowess.
- Walid Cheddira (2021): The Moroccan striker joined on loan from Parma and impressed with his performances, earning a permanent move.
Notable Departures
- Gianluca Lapadula (2017): The Italian forward left for Pescara after helping Cosenza win promotion to Serie B.
- Marco Sau (2019): The veteran striker departed for Benevento after a successful stint with Cosenza.
- Luka Krajnc (2021): The Slovenian defender left for Spezia after establishing himself as a key player.
Loan Deals
Cosenza has also utilized loan deals to bolster its squad and give young players valuable experience.
- Tommaso Berti (2020): The midfielder joined on loan from Fiorentina and played a significant role in Cosenza’s Serie B campaign.
- Alessandro Cortinovis (2022): The young forward joined from Atalanta and made an immediate impact with his goalscoring ability.
- Nicolas Haas (2023): The German midfielder arrived on loan from Juventus and added experience and quality to Cosenza’s midfield.
Notable Players
Throughout Cosenza Calcio’s history, several talented players have graced the club’s roster, leaving an indelible mark on its legacy.
These exceptional individuals have contributed significantly to the club’s successes and have played a pivotal role in shaping its identity.
Cosenza Calcio’s Most Notable Players
| Player Name | Position | Years Played | Notable Accomplishments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gianluca Zambrotta | Defender | 1994-1997 | – Key member of the team that won the Serie B title in 1997 – Represented Italy at the international level |
| Massimo Margiotta | Midfielder | 1996-2002 | – Captain of the team during its successful Serie A campaign in 1998-1999 – Scored the winning goal in the 1998-1999 Serie B play-off final |
| Maurizio Iorio | Forward | 1999-2003 | – Club’s all-time leading goalscorer – Scored the goal that secured Cosenza’s promotion to Serie A in 1999 |
| Luigi Di Biagio | Midfielder | 2003-2004 | – World Cup winner with Italy in 2006 – Captained the team during its Serie B campaign in 2003-2004 |
| Andrea Campagnolo | Goalkeeper | 2004-2010 | – Long-serving goalkeeper who made over 200 appearances for the club – Played a key role in Cosenza’s promotion to Serie B in 2007 |
Manager Profile
Davide Dionigi, the current manager of Cosenza Calcio, is a seasoned Italian coach known for his tactical acumen and emphasis on attacking football.
Dionigi’s coaching philosophy centers around possession-based play, with a focus on quick passing, movement off the ball, and creating scoring opportunities through incisive through balls.
Tactics
Dionigi typically deploys a 4-3-3 formation, prioritizing width and fluidity in attack. His teams are characterized by their high-pressing style, aiming to win the ball back quickly in the opposition’s half.
In possession, Cosenza under Dionigi looks to control the tempo, using short passes and intricate combinations to break down defenses. They also utilize wing-backs to provide width and create overlapping runs.
Managerial Record
Dionigi has a respectable managerial record, having led several clubs to promotion and success in the lower tiers of Italian football.
- 2012-2014: Promoted Virtus Entella to Serie B
- 2015-2016: Led Venezia to the Serie B play-off finals
- 2017-2018: Promoted Cosenza to Serie B
Dionigi’s appointment at Cosenza in 2021 marked his return to the club where he had previously served as a player. Under his guidance, Cosenza has maintained their Serie B status, playing an attractive brand of football that has won over the fans.
Youth Academy
Cosenza Calcio’s youth academy has a long and proud history of producing talented players who have gone on to successful careers in football.
Some of the most notable graduates of the academy include:
- Francesco Cozza: Cozza is a defender who has played for several Serie A clubs, including Napoli and Lazio. He has also represented Italy at the international level.
- Gianluca Comotto: Comotto is a midfielder who has played for several Serie A clubs, including Juventus and Roma. He has also represented Italy at the international level.
- Giuseppe Sculli: Sculli is a forward who has played for several Serie A clubs, including Lazio and Genoa. He has also represented Italy at the international level.
In recent years, Cosenza Calcio’s youth academy has produced a number of players who have been promoted to the first team.
For example, in the 2022-23 season, four players from the academy were promoted to the first team.
Cosenza Calcio’s youth academy is one of the most respected in Italy.
It is known for its focus on developing players technically and tactically.
The academy also has a strong track record of producing players who are mentally tough and have a strong work ethic.
Cosenza Calcio’s youth academy faces a number of challenges, including the increasing competition for young players from other clubs in Italy and Europe.
However, the academy has a number of strengths, including its experienced coaching staff and its excellent facilities.
Cosenza Calcio is committed to continuing to invest in its youth academy and to producing players who can help the club achieve success at the highest level.
In recent years, Cosenza Calcio has implemented a number of changes to improve its youth academy system.
These changes include:
- Hiring a new academy director with experience at a top club.
- Increasing the number of coaches in the academy.
- Improving the academy’s facilities.
- Developing a new curriculum for the academy.
These changes are already having a positive impact on the academy.
The number of players being promoted to the first team has increased, and the academy is now producing players who are better prepared for the demands of professional football.
Community Involvement
Cosenza Calcio is deeply committed to giving back to the local community. The club actively participates in various charitable initiatives, educational programs, and social projects, aiming to make a positive impact on the lives of the people in the region.
Through its charitable work, the club supports several local organizations dedicated to providing assistance to the underprivileged, including food banks, homeless shelters, and youth development programs. Cosenza Calcio regularly organizes fundraising events, such as charity matches and auctions, to raise funds for these organizations.
Educational Programs
The club has established partnerships with local schools and universities to promote youth development through sports. Cosenza Calcio coaches conduct training sessions and workshops at schools, providing guidance and mentorship to young aspiring footballers. Additionally, the club offers educational scholarships to promising young players from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Social Initiatives
Cosenza Calcio is actively involved in community-based projects that address social issues and promote well-being. The club has organized neighborhood clean-ups, health awareness campaigns, and initiatives to combat social isolation among the elderly. Through these projects, the club aims to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for the local community.
Analyze Cosenza Calcio’s social media presence, including platforms used, engagement levels, and content strategy
Cosenza Calcio has a strong presence on social media, with active accounts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. The club uses these platforms to share news, updates, and behind-the-scenes content with its fans.
Cosenza Calcio’s social media engagement levels are relatively high, with a large number of followers and likes on each platform. The club’s content is generally well-received by fans, and it often generates a lot of discussion and interaction.
Content strategy, Cosenza Calcio
Cosenza Calcio’s social media content strategy is focused on providing fans with a mix of news, updates, and behind-the-scenes content. The club also uses its social media channels to promote its sponsors and partners.
- News: Cosenza Calcio shares news about the club, including match results, player signings, and injuries.
- Updates: The club provides updates on the team’s training sessions, travel plans, and other activities.
- Behind-the-scenes content: Cosenza Calcio shares behind-the-scenes content that gives fans a glimpse into the inner workings of the club.
- Sponsor promotions: The club promotes its sponsors and partners through social media posts.
Marketing and Sponsorship
Cosenza Calcio has implemented a multifaceted marketing and sponsorship strategy to enhance its brand visibility, engage with fans, and generate revenue. The club’s marketing efforts focus on leveraging partnerships, advertising campaigns, and merchandise sales.
Cosenza Calcio has established strategic partnerships with local and regional businesses, including companies in the hospitality, retail, and automotive sectors. These partnerships provide the club with financial support, branding opportunities, and access to new markets.
Advertising Campaigns
The club utilizes various advertising channels to reach its target audience. Cosenza Calcio’s advertising campaigns are designed to create awareness, generate excitement, and drive ticket sales. The club uses a combination of traditional and digital advertising, including billboards, television commercials, and social media promotions.
Merchandise Sales
Cosenza Calcio generates revenue through the sale of merchandise, including jerseys, scarves, and other branded items. The club’s merchandise is available through its official online store, retail partners, and at the club’s stadium. Cosenza Calcio collaborates with reputable manufacturers to ensure high-quality products that appeal to fans.
Final Wrap-Up
As we conclude our journey into the world of Cosenza Calcio, it is evident that this club is more than just a team on the pitch. It is a symbol of pride, passion, and community. With a rich history, a dedicated fan base, and a promising future, Cosenza Calcio is poised to continue making its mark in the years to come.
Question & Answer Hub
What is Cosenza Calcio’s nickname?
The Lupi (The Wolves)
Who is Cosenza Calcio’s most famous player?
Gianluca Comotto
What is Cosenza Calcio’s biggest rivalry?
Reggina