Ciccio Caputo: A Remarkable Journey from Amateur Leagues to International Soccer

Ciccio Caputo, who recently announced his retirement from professional soccer, has had an extraordinary career trajectory. Starting in the amateur leagues of Puglia, he climbed through the ranks to eventually represent the Italian national team.

“It was an unimaginable journey,” Caputo reflects. “I kicked my first ball in my neighborhood parish in Altamura, then played in the amateur leagues. After years of hard work, I finally wore the blue jersey of Italy. I experienced every level except Serie D and C, as I only played in C2 back then.”

Caputo’s early experiences shaped his career. “At 15, I was playing in the Prima Categoria. Some teammates would arrive at the field still in their work clothes. Those experiences taught me unforgettable lessons.”

His breakthrough came with Noicattaro in Serie C2, thanks to Daniele Faggiano’s efforts. Caputo’s dream of playing for the national team came true at 33, courtesy of Roberto Mancini. “Singing the national anthem and being in that environment were indescribable feelings,” he says.

Caputo narrowly missed being part of the Euro 2020 squad due to a back injury. “I was really close to making that European Championship… There’s some regret because I could have been part of that winning team,” he admits.

With 70 goals in Serie A and 200 in his professional career, Caputo’s journey from amateur leagues to international soccer stands as a testament to perseverance and dedication in the sport.