British and Irish players in Italian Football: A legacy of flair, grit, and cultural impact

Italian football has traditionally been known for its tactical sophistication, defensive mastery, and passionate supporters. 

While Serie A has long attracted South American and continental European stars, the presence of Irish and British players in Italy has been less frequent — but when it has occurred, it has often left a lasting impression. 

Scott McTominay’s move to Napoli in the summer of 2024 was met with surprise – but what followed was one of the most transformative and successful spells for a British player in Italy’s top flight. 

He helped Napoli win the 2024–25 Serie A title, securing the club’s fourth Scudetto and was recognized in the Serie A Team of the Season and named Best Foreign Player by La Gazzetta dello Sportreaders.

While calling him the “greatest ever British or Irish player in Serie A” sparks debate, his impact at Napoli has been remarkable, and he’s quickly entered the conversation among the most influential.

From pioneering trailblazers to modern-day success stories, these players brought a distinct flavour to Calcio.

The Pioneers

Liam Brady (Juventus, Sampdoria, Inter Milan, Ascoli form 1980–1987)

Perhaps the most iconic Irishman to grace Italian football, Liam Brady paved the way for British and Irish talent in Serie A. 

After dazzling at Arsenal, Brady moved to Juventus in 1980, winning two league titles in Turin. Known for his sublime left foot and technical ability, he was a creative force in midfield — a rare example at the time of an Anglo-Irish player fully adapting to the continental style.

He later had successful spells with Sampdoria, Inter Milan, and Ascoli, showcasing his adaptability and becoming a fan favourite in each stop. Brady remains a benchmark for Irish players abroad.

The 1990s and Early 2000s: Curiosity and Challenges

Paul Gascoigne (Lazio – 1992–1995)

A player of immense talent and charisma, Paul “Gazza” Gascoigne moved to Lazio amid huge media attention. While his time in Rome was injury-hit and inconsistent, he remains one of the most talked-about foreign imports in Lazio history. His passion, humour, and occasional brilliance endeared him to fans, and his goal in the Rome Derby in 1992 cemented his cult status.

David Platt (Bari, Juventus, Sampdoria – 1991–1995)

Unlike many of his peers, David Platt thrived in Italy. After joining Bari post-1990 World Cup, he impressed enough to earn a move to Juventus, and later Sampdoria. Platt’s intelligent runs and eye for goal suited Serie A’s tactical setups. He scored regularly and earned respect for his professionalism and tactical understanding.

Des Walker (Sampdoria – 1992–1993)

The England defender joined Sampdoria after Euro 1992. Despite his pace and experience, he struggled to adapt to the slower, more positional nature of Italian defending, and returned to England after one season.

⚽ Modern Era: From Cult Heroes to Promising Talents

Joe Hart (Torino – 2016–2017)

England’s former number one shocked many by joining Torino on loan after falling out of favour at Manchester City. His time in Serie A was mixed — a few high-profile errors overshadowed solid performances — but he earned praise for embracing Italian culture and language. His move opened doors for others and demonstrated a willingness among modern British players to explore new challenges.

Ashley Young, Chris Smalling, and Fikayo Tomori

The recent wave of English defenders moving to Italy has had a more significant and sustained impact:

• Chris Smalling (Roma – 2020–2024) has reinvented himself as a reliable leader in Roma’s back line. Nicknamed “Smalldini” by fans, he played a key role in Roma’s 2022 Conference League win.
• Fikayo Tomori (AC Milan – 2021–present) became a cornerstone of Milan’s Scudetto-winning side in 2021–22. His pace and reading of the game earned him respect and a permanent move from Chelsea.
• Ashley Young (Inter Milan – 2020–2021) won the Serie A title under Antonio Conte, contributing experience and versatility as a wing-back during Inter’s 2020–21 triumph.

Their success reflects a growing trend of English players shedding the “home comfort” stigma and thriving in more tactical, disciplined leagues.

Irish Presence in Recent Years

Though fewer in number than their English counterparts, Irish players have shown promise:

Robbie Keane had a brief stint at Inter Milan in 2000. Despite his potential and energy, he was rarely used and soon returned to England. His move is seen as a missed opportunity due to managerial changes rather than a lack of ability.

James Abankwah (Udinese – 2022–present)

Still in the early stages of his career, the young Irish defender represents a new generation of talent willing to grow abroad. Udinese’s track record with youth development could prove crucial to his long-term success. He’s just re-joined Watford for his second loan spell.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

The impact of Irish and British players in Italy goes beyond goals and trophies:

• They brought different footballing mentalities: physicality, directness, and Premier League energy.
• They often struggled with language and tactical nuances, but those who adapted – like Brady and Smalling – were embraced by fans.
• Modern players have helped break stereotypes, proving that English-speakers can thrive in slower, more cerebral leagues.

British & Irish Players in Serie A & Serie B

Scotland leads the British presence in Italy, with players earning central roles in their Serie A clubs. While England boasts a mix of experienced squad players and ventures into Serie A from AC Milan to Como. The Irish representation remains modest but promising, focused on youth and development — both in Serie A and Serie B. 

Here’s an up‑to‑date overview of current British and Irish players active in Serie A and Serie B:

• Scott McTominay (Napoli, Serie A) – Signed for around £25.7 M in summer 2024; central to Napoli’s title challenge alongside fellow Scot Billy Gilmour. Nicknamed “McTomadona” by fans.
• Billy Gilmour (Napoli, Serie A) – Deep‑lying midfielder who brought Premier League poise to Napoli’s midfield rotation.
• Lewis Ferguson (Bologna, Serie A) – Bologna captain since 2023, named Serie A Midfielder of the Year 2023‑24 and Scotland’s top scorer in the league (surpassing Denis Law).
• Liam Henderson (Empoli, Serie B) – Veteran midfielder with decades in Italy, first Scot to reach 100 Serie A game.
• Josh Doig (Sassuolo, Serie A after last season’s promotion) – Left‑back who moved from Hellas Verona in January 2024; key in the club’s Serie B title and return to Serie A. Called up to Scotland squad in 2025.
• Che Adams (Torino, Serie A) – Joined in 2024; scoring form continues, matching Denis Law’s Torino record with 10 total goals in all comps.
• Keinan Davis (Udinese, Serie A) – Ex-Aston Villa striker; yet to play much but part of the current squad.

Additional England-born names include Ruben Loftus‑Cheek, Fikayo Tomori, Tammy Abraham, Kyle Walker, and Dele Alli, spread across AC Milan, Como, Torino – all active in Serie A during 2024‑25.

Ireland 

• Najemedine “Naj” Razi (Como, Serie B) – Young midfielder who joined Como in February 2024; yet to feature but considered top Irish youth prospect.
• James Abankwah (Udinese, Serie A) – Signed January 2022; Serie A debut in April 2023, first Serie A start came in June 2023 vs Juventus; still developing with first‑team integration. 
• Kevin Zefi (Roma youth, Serie A Youth) – Winger in Roma’s academy; registered in senior squad but yet to debut; standout in Primavera and youth competitions

The Future

With more young players exploring opportunities outside the Premier League, Serie A could see a resurgence in British and Irish talent.

The tactical education, lifestyle, and international exposure of Italian football offer a rich environment for growth. For players like Tomori and Abankwah are already reaping the rewards.

And, on Sunday, Evan Ferguson became the latest Irishman to move to Serie A after he agreed to join Roma on loan with an option to make the move permanent next summer.

Conclusion

Though not always numerous, Irish and British players have made a distinctive mark on Italian football. From Liam Brady’s artistry to Tomori’s steel and McTominay’s genius, they’ve proven that cultural bridges can be crossed. And when they are, Serie A becomes richer for it!