Luca Di Maggio: ‘I Didn’t Hesitate When Avellino Called’ – Midfielder Presented in Press Conference

Luca Di Maggio was officially presented as a new Avellino midfielder on 24 July 2026, speaking to the media alongside club officials. The 23-year-old arrives on a permanent transfer, having spent the previous season on loan at Padova in Serie B. In his first press conference, Di Maggio outlined the reasons behind his swift decision to join the club and his ambitions for the upcoming campaign.

The move comes as Avellino prepares for the 2026-27 Serie B season under manager Alessio Nesta. Di Maggio, who also played for Fiorentina’s youth system, is expected to add depth to a midfield that already features several options.

Why Avellino won the race

Di Maggio confirmed that the transfer was wrapped up quickly. “When I heard that Avellino were looking for me, I didn’t hesitate and I made this choice,” he said. “The trust the club showed in me weighed heavily in my decision to come here, and I am extremely happy to be at Avellino.”

The midfielder joins on a permanent deal, marking a long-term commitment from both sides. He described the club’s confidence in him as a decisive factor, especially after a loan spell at Padova that gave him his first taste of regular Serie B football.

Playing style and tactical fit

Describing his own game, Di Maggio said: “I consider myself a generous player, I always try to put the team before the individual. I like to have the ball at my feet, to keep possession, and at the same time, when it’s time to press, I enjoy doing that.”

Under manager Alessio Nesta, Avellino are expected to build play through midfield. Di Maggio noted that Nesta demands “centrality” and a pass-based approach. “It takes personality to play this way, but we also need to practise, be on the pitch and understand exactly what we have to do. It’s also a matter of habit in the movements. Working hard will lead to the best results.”

Inspiration from Barella but no shortcuts

When asked about comparisons to Inter Milan’s Nicolò Barella, Di Maggio was measured. “He is an inspiration. But I tend to avoid these comparisons because I still have to prove a lot, not just a little. I must never lose the desire to go to the training ground every day with the hunger to improve physically, tactically and mentally. That is the only way to get personal satisfaction, not only in football but also in life.”

The midfielder showed maturity in his response, acknowledging that he still has a long way to go before matching the level of Italy’s established midfielders.

Key facts

Competition for places and personal goals

Di Maggio acknowledged the depth in Avellino’s midfield. “There is great abundance in midfield, but that is a positive thing. To have good seasons and maintain high standards, you need everyone. It should be a stimulating thing.”

He also reflected on his year at Padova, calling it “fundamental because I broke the ice with the category. I arrive more ready and aware.” Regarding the Serie B championship itself, he noted that it is “very uneven” and that “the strength of the group and the closeness of the fans can be important factors for achieving results.”

Building a bond with the fans

Having joined on a permanent deal, Di Maggio is keen to integrate into the local community. “I am trying to integrate as much as possible, both with my teammates – I publicly thank them for how they welcomed me – and with the fans. I hope to make them understand how much I care about the work I do and about representing this club.”

The midfielder’s willingness to engage with supporters aligns with the club’s efforts to rebuild a strong connection with the Avellino fanbase after promotion back to Serie B.

What’s next

Avellino are in the middle of pre-season friendlies. Di Maggio mentioned that the team is working hard but declined to make predictions for the upcoming third test match. “We are pushing a lot in this period. It’s hard to make predictions. We are trying to apply ourselves and put ourselves at the disposal of the manager. That’s the most important thing.”

The coming weeks will determine how quickly Di Maggio adapts to Nesta’s system and whether he can secure a starting role when the Serie B season begins in August.

Source: TuttoMercatoWeb – https://www.tuttomercatoweb.com/serie-b/maggio-avellino-esitato-attimo-fiducia-club-2256685