09 March 2015
Twelve points better off than they were at this stage last term, Sassuolo have been 2014/15’s surprise package.
And Eusebio Di Francesco’s men are faring better than their critics would have imagined as they dine at the top table of Italian football for only the second season in their 93-year history.
The secret behind their success could come down to a variety of reasons, but one aspect that continues to catch everyone’s eyes is their exciting attacking trident comprising Nicola Sansone, Domenico Berardi and Simone Zaza.
Name: Nicola Sansone
Age: 23
Position: Attacking midfielder/Forward
German-born forward Nicola Sansone normally slots in on the left flank of this three-pronged attack.
The 23-year-old, who spent eight seasons among the youth ranks at Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich, has bagged three goals and two assists in this year’s Serie A.
Having swapped Parma for Sassuolo back in January 2014, Sansone has progressed steadily since his switch and continues to develop under Di Francesco’s watchful guard.
A former Italy Under-21 international, the youngster is a keen dribbler, possesses the odd long shot in his locker and has the ability to thread killer through balls for the rest of his team-mates.
Name: Domenico Berardi
Age: 20
Position: Attacking midfielder/Forward
Out on the right side of this dangerous trio is Sassuolo’s star performer Domenico Berardi.
His 16 strikes were pivotal in the Neroverdi surviving the dreaded drop to Serie B last year and the 20-year-old has taken that form into this season, notching seven goals and six assists in 20 top flight games.
Berardi is co-owned by Juventus and the Bianconeri backline will have to be wary of the young striker who is a dead-eye in front of goal, can be ruthless from set-pieces and enjoys bringing his fellow comrades into play with excellent passing.
If he features at Juventus Stadium this evening, Berardi would be achieving a personal milestone by making his 50th Serie A appearance.
Name: Simone Zaza
Age: 23
Position: Forward
Talented striker Simone Zaza joined Sassuolo on a permanent contract last summer after enjoying a solid first season in Reggio Emilia while on a co-ownership deal from Juventus.
The 23-year-old has established himself as the focal point of the Neroverdi attack and his impressive performances have not gone unnoticed as he received his first call-up to the Italian national side for September 2014’s international matches.
With eight Serie A goals to his name this campaign, the Policoro-born frontman is known for his attacking prowess but also performs admirably when it comes to defending, tracking back to contribute to the cause when required.* *
During his short professional career, Zaza has already bagged two strikes against the Bianconeri, both having come at the Mapei Stadium. He’s only found the net more times versus Cagliari (three).
