Genoa’s jewel learning from Nesta – how Marcandalli has ‘bewitched’ Milan

AC Milan have shown a willingness to invest in young talent over the past few years and it is believed that Alessandro Marcandalli has become the subject of interest, a report claims.

Calciomercato.com begin a report on Marcandalli by recalling that Serie B has always been a launching pad for many young players who then manage to grow, mature and either return to their parent clubs (if on loan) or make the move to the top flight.

Marcandalli was born in Bergamo in 2002 with Nigerian origins on his mother’s side and he has played football since the age of 7. He was part of Atalanta’s youth sector for a young age where he played as a winger, but then when he grew to be bigger he was moved back.

Atalanta released him and so Marcandalli joined Giana Erminio, shuttling between the youth team and the first team, even making his debut in Serie C at just 18 years of age. Genoa noticed him and signed him for their Primavera, even giving him a contract until 30 June 2026.

He was sent on loan to Pontedera first and he is now at Reggiana, learning from one of the best to ever play the centre-back position: Alessandro Nesta. Marcandalli is finally finding the continuity he was looking for among the pros and with a master of the role as coach he is making giant strides.

He is an aggressive and quick central defender like Antonio Rudiger and he has ‘bewitched’ Milan. Geoffrey Moncada saw him live, the reports are positive and reminiscent of those that led to the purchase of Malick Thiaw from Schalke, another player he is like.

There has been no direct contact between the parties, but as Marcandalli gains in reputation – as seen by the fact he has been called up by Alberto Bollini for Italy U20s – the Rossoneri might have to make their move.