Antonio Di Natale established himself as one of the most prolific strikers in Italian football history, despite beginning his professional path in the lower tiers. Emerging from the Empoli youth system, he transitioned into a focal point for Udinese, where he served as club captain and secured top-scorer honors during two consecutive Serie A seasons between 2010 and 2011.
Early Career and Empoli Development
Born in Naples in 1977 to Salvatore and Giovanna, Antonio Di Natale grew up in the Pomigliano d'Arco district. His formal football education began at the San Nicola school in Castello di Cisterna. In 1990, he joined the Empoli youth sector. His progression to the senior squad involved loan spells at Iperzola, Varese, and Viareggio. During the 2001–02 Serie B season, he contributed 16 goals, helping Empoli earn promotion to Serie A. His initial stint in the top flight yielded 13 goals in the 2002–03 season, providing a crucial buffer against relegation before the club eventually returned to the second division in 2004.
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Upon joining Udinese in 2004, Di Natale became a central figure for the Friulian club. He was appointed captain in 2007 and led the team to multiple top-four finishes and UEFA Champions League qualification. The 2009–10 season proved historic as he recorded 29 league goals, surpassing Oliver Bierhoff’s previous club record. By the end of the 2010–11 campaign, he maintained a strike rate of 0.78 goals per match, trailing only Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in European efficiency. He retired as Udinese’s record goal-scorer in Serie A with 191 goals.
International Participation
Di Natale represented the Italy national team between 2002 and 2012, accumulating 42 appearances and 11 goals. His tournament experience included participation in the 2010 FIFA World Cup, where he scored one goal, and tournament appearances where he represented his country as they advanced through the bracket, including a goal contribution during the 2012 cycle.
Fast facts
- Born: 13 October 1977, Naples
- Professional debut: 1995
- Serie A appearances: 385
- Serie A goals: 191
- Serie A top goalscorer: 2010, 2011
- Serie A Italian Footballer of the Year: 2010
- International caps: 42
- International goals: 11
Questions readers ask
How many goals did Di Natale score in Serie A?
He scored 191 goals in 385 Serie A appearances for Udinese.
Which awards did he receive for the 2010 season?
He was named the Serie A Italian Footballer of the Year and the league's top goalscorer.
Achievements
- Worked as association football player and association football coach
