Bryan Cristante: The Rising Star of Italian Football

The Young Prodigy

Bryan Cristante, born on 3 March 1995, is an Italian professional footballer who has taken the world of football by storm with his exceptional skills and talent as a defensive midfielder. At just 26 years old, Cristante has already made a name for himself, playing for top-tier clubs like AC Milan and Roma, as well as representing the Italian national team.

Early Life and Career

Born to a Canadian father of Italian descent and an Italian mother in San Vito al Tagliamento, Italy, Cristante grew up in the district of San Giovanni in Casarsa della Delizia. He was named Bryan in honor of English singer Bryan Ferry. Holding dual Canadian-Italian citizenship, Cristante started playing football as a child and soon joined Liventina Gorghense, an amateur club in the province of Treviso. In 2009, he took a significant step in his career by joining AC Milan.

Rise to Prominence

Cristante's time in AC Milan's youth system was nothing short of impressive. He was a member of the under-15 squad that won the Campionato Giovanissimi Nazionali in 2010, scoring eight goals, and later became a member of the under-17 side that won the Campionato Allievi Nazionali in 2011.

On 6 December 2011, Cristante made his professional debut for AC Milan, coming on as a substitute for Robinho in a UEFA Champions League group stage match against Viktoria Plze. At just 16 years and 278 days old, he became the youngest ever Milan player to feature in a Champions League game and the third youngest overall.

Awards and Recognition

Cristante's exceptional talent and dedication earned him several awards and recognition. He was elected as the best player at the Torneo di Viareggio 2013 and signed his first professional contract with AC Milan on 4 March 2013, which would have kept him at the club until 2018.

Club Career

Cristante joined the first team squad at the start of the 2013-2014 season and made his Serie A debut on 10 November 2013, coming on as a substitute for Kak in a match against Chievo Verona. He scored his first goal for the club on 6 January 2014, set up by the Brazilian in a 3-0 victory at the San Siro against Atalanta.

On 1 September 2014, Cristante signed a five-year contract with Benfica, a top-tier Portuguese club. However, he returned to Italy in 2018, signing with Roma, where he currently plays.

International Career

Cristante made his debut for the Italian national team on 7 October 2017, coming on as a substitute in a 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Macedonia. He scored his first international goal on 10 October 2018, in a 1-1 draw against Ukraine.

Personal Life

Cristante keeps his personal life private, but it's known that he holds dual Canadian-Italian citizenship. His parents named him Bryan in honor of English singer Bryan Ferry, reflecting their diverse cultural background.

Career Highlights and Major Works

• Youngest ever Milan player to feature in a Champions League game
• Best player at the Torneo di Viareggio 2013
• Signed with Roma in 2018
• Made his debut for the Italian national team in 2017
• Scored his first international goal in 2018

Conclusion

Bryan Cristante's journey so far is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and exceptional talent. As he continues to excel in the world of football, fans and critics alike can't help but wonder what the future holds for this young prodigy.