Veteran Players Making Their Mark in Serie A

Notable players like Luka Modric (40), Kevin De Bruyne (35), and Paulo Dybala (32) still compete at high levels in the league. However, there are many lesser-known players who are also contributing significantly.

The recent signing of David Alaba by Udinese after his departure from Real Madrid prompts a closer examination of other veterans joining Serie A.

Nemanja Matic is one such player. The experienced midfielder moved to Roma in 2022, reuniting with José Mourinho. His tenure in Rome included participation in a Europa League final, yet he left after just one season due to unmet contractual expectations. Following two years in France, Matic returned to Italy with Sassuolo last summer, where he remains impactful at 38, making 34 appearances last season.

Another veteran, Ricardo Rodriguez, a Swiss international, returned to Torino this September after a year as a free agent. Having previously made over 100 appearances for Torino from 2020 to 2024, he had a brief stint with Real Betis before rejoining Torino, although he has only featured once since his return.

Federico Bernardeschi, known for his time at Fiorentina and Juventus, left Serie A for Toronto FC in 2022 but returned to Bologna in 2025. Last season, he scored nine goals in 45 appearances, making a notable impact in the Europa League.

Diego Carlos, once part of Sevilla's celebrated defense, is now on loan at Parma after stints with Aston Villa and Fenerbahce. The 33-year-old Brazilian has started all matches for Parma since his late transfer.

Sead Kolasinac, in his fourth season with Atalanta, has been utilized more effectively this term after a tactical shift by coach Maurizio Sarri, playing predominantly as a left-back.

Mario Hermoso, after a turbulent debut season with Roma, is now a consistent starter in their defensive lineup. He made the transfer after leaving Atletico Madrid and has regained form under new management.

Yerry Mina, after leaving Everton, had a brief spell with Fiorentina before moving to Cagliari, where he has begun to find stability in his career.

Florian Grillitsch, now with Frosinone, has had an eclectic career, not quite hitting the Premier League heights expected of him, but his arrival was seen as beneficial for the promoted team.

David de Gea, though not forgotten, had a year-long hiatus before signing with Fiorentina in 2024, where he has since recorded 21 clean sheets across 77 matches.

Arkadiusz Milik continues his association with Juventus, despite struggles with injuries limiting his appearances over the past two seasons, while Keita Balde, once a standout at Lazio, is now playing with Monza after a series of club changes.

As Serie A evolves, these veteran players bring unique experiences and continue to make their mark in the league.