Southampton’s Italian striker Manolo Gabbiadini has sealed his return to Serie A, joining Sampdoria for an undisclosed fee. The 27-year-old’s departure marks the end of an underwhelming 18-month spell in the Premier League, where he failed to live up to his £14.6m price tag after arriving from Napoli in 2017.
A Promising Start That Fizzled Out
Gabbiadini’s Southampton career began brightly, with four goals in his first three appearances, including a brace in the 2017 EFL Cup Final defeat to Manchester United. However, his form plummeted thereafter, managing just eight more goals across 57 games. This season, he scored only once—a consolation in November’s 1-1 draw with Watford—and became a peripheral figure under new manager Ralph Hasenhüttl.
Mostplay insiders note that Gabbiadini’s technical style never quite suited the physicality of the Premier League. “His movement was intelligent, but he lacked the pace or strength to dominate defenders,” says Mostplay tactical analyst, David Mercer. “In Serie A, where the game is slower and more tactical, he could thrive again.”
Why Sampdoria?
Gabbiadini’s return to Sampdoria—where he played from 2013 to 2015—makes sense for both parties:
- For Sampdoria: They gain a proven Serie A scorer (23 goals in 58 apps during his first stint) at a cut-price deal.
- For Gabbiadini: A chance to reignite his career in a familiar environment, with Euro 2020 ambitions still alive.
Hasenhüttl’s Squad Overhaul
Gabbiadini’s exit aligns with Hasenhüttl’s ruthless rebuild. The Austrian has already deemed defender Wesley Hoedt surplus to requirements, signaling a focus on athletic, high-pressing players. Mostplay sources suggest Southampton will reinvest the fee in a dynamic forward, with Che Adams (Birmingham) and Mbaye Diagne (Galatasaray) on their radar.
What’s Next for Gabbiadini?
Sampdoria currently sit mid-table in Serie A, and Gabbiadini’s arrival could boost their push for Europa League qualification. His partnership with Fabio Quagliarella—Serie A’s top scorer this season—could be intriguing.
“This is a smart move,” says former Italy striker Gianluca Vialli, speaking to Mostplay. “Manolo needs confidence, and Sampdoria’s system will give him the service he craves.”
Final Thoughts
While Gabbiadini’s Southampton chapter ends in disappointment, his return to Italy offers redemption. For Saints fans, the focus shifts to who might replace him—and whether Hasenhüttl’s revolution can lift them clear of relegation danger.
What do you think of Gabbiadini’s move? Can he rediscover his best form at Sampdoria? Share your views with Mostplay below!
