A midfielder who transitioned from Atalanta to Juventus in 1979, Claudio Cesare Prandelli competed in 197 Serie A matches before embarking on an extensive managerial path. Born in 1957 in Orzinuovi, Italy, he eventually steered the national team to the final of UEFA Euro 2012, marking a significant chapter in his professional tenure.
Playing Career
Prandelli began his professional athletic path at Atalanta before securing a transfer to Juventus in 1979. His debut with the club occurred during the 1979–80 European Cup Winners' Cup against Raba ETO Győr. Over six seasons with Juventus, he participated in various domestic and international competitions, concluding his final appearance for the side in the 1984–85 Coppa Italia against Milan.
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After transitioning to coaching, he managed the youth teams at Atalanta from 1990 to 1997, serving as first-team caretaker during the 1993–94 season. His subsequent roles included managing Lecce, Hellas Verona, and Parma. In 2005, he arrived at Fiorentina, where he earned the Serie A Coach of the Year award in 2009. He remained the longest-serving manager in the history of the club until his departure, navigating challenges including match-fixing scandals, point deductions, and international qualification campaigns.
Leading the Azzurri
Appointed head coach of the Italy national team in May 2010, Prandelli debuted against the Ivory Coast in August. He guided the squad to a final appearance at UEFA Euro 2012, where they eventually lost to Spain. His tenure included a third-place finish in the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup in Brazil. Following an early group stage exit at the 2014 FIFA World Cup, he resigned from his position in June 2014.
Fast facts
- Born: 19 August 1957
- Birthplace: Orzinuovi, Italy
- Primary occupations: Football player, football coach
- Total Serie A appearances as player: 197
- 2009 Serie A Coach of the Year
- 2012 UEFA Euro finalist manager
Questions readers ask
Which major clubs did Cesare Prandelli manage?
His managerial career included spells at Atalanta, Lecce, Hellas Verona, Parma, and Fiorentina.
What was the result of the Euro 2012 final?
Italy reached the final under Prandelli but were defeated 4–0 by Spain.
Achievements
- Worked as association football player and association football coach
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