Roma talent Arena earns comparison with Italy legend

Promising Roma striker Antonio Arena scored with his first touch at a senior level in a Coppa Italia game against Torino and Marco Arcese, who brought him to Italy from Australia, compares the 16-year-old to Italian legend Pippo Inzaghi.

Arena made headlines on Tuesday as he scored his first goal at a senior level for Roma in an eventual 3-2 loss against Torino in the Coppa Italia Round of 16.

Arena moved to Pescara from West Sydney in 2022 and then joined Roma last summer.

Marco Arcese, the business development director of Pescara’s Academy, travelled to Australia to watch the player three years ago and was immediately impressed.

“Anthony Ucchino is my colleague who lives in Australia and tips me off about promising players,” Arcese told Sky Sport Italia.

“In 2022, I got a call from him telling me to fly out immediately to see a talent rarely seen before. I went, and I was spellbound. Believe me, love at first sight in football isn’t easy. But that’s what it was. I don’t want to sound arrogant, but I immediately understood just how extraordinary Antonio was.

“He scored an unbelievable goal. He took the ball, turned, accelerated and scored. He was 14 but playing with the U16 team. He was truly playing above his level. I immediately asked for information about him, but Real Betis wanted him too.”

So, how did Pescara convince him to move to Italy?

“I played on his Italian roots and the good reputation of Pescara’s Academy,” Arcese replied.

“We convinced his father, Anthony, and we took on the responsibility to bring him to Italy. It takes courage to leave everything behind and move 15,000 kilometres away. His father came with him, too. He stayed by his side for three years, and he also left Australia so his son could chase his dream.

“Last year, Baldini called him up to the first team; he made his debut and scored against Lucchese. He was also called up to the national team while still underage, playing for U16 and U15. He scored on his debut with Gasperini; you can’t ask for more than that.”

When asked about which great player of the past Arena reminds him of, Arcese replied: “Pippo Inzaghi. He has that ruthlessness and desire to find the penalty area. He attacks the space and keeps improving. ”

Arena, 16, has already made five appearances with the U18 Italy team.