Riccardo Bonetto Italian footballer, left back. Date of Birth: 20.03.1979 Country: Italy

1. Early Career
2. Establishing His Place
3. Loan Spells and Injury
4. Rise to Serie A
5. Turbulent Years
6. Contract Dispute and Conclusion

Early Career

Born and raised in Italy, Riccardo Bonetto emerged as a promising left-back through the youth ranks of Juventus. In 1998, he embarked on a loan spell with Novara in Serie C2, followed by a stint at Fermana. Later that year, he joined Belgian club Beveren, where he made 19 appearances and scored two goals.

Establishing His Place

Bonetto returned to Italy in 2000, signing for Arezzo in Serie C1. He established himself as a regular starter, featuring in 30 matches and finding the net three times. His impressive performances earned him a move to Empoli in 2001.

Loan Spells and Injury

After 22 appearances for Empoli, Bonetto spent the following season on loan at Ascoli, where he made an equal number of appearances. During this time, Empoli acquired the remaining rights to his contract from Juventus. However, a serious injury sidelined Bonetto for the 2003/2004 season.

Rise to Serie A

Upon his recovery, Bonetto played a crucial role in Empoli's promotion to Serie A in the 2004/2005 season. He scored his first goal in the top flight against Udinese on August 28, 2005, securing a victory for his team.

Turbulent Years

In January 2006, Bonetto was loaned to Ascoli but did not feature due to another injury. He subsequently joined Lazio in the summer of 2006, but failed to secure a place in the starting lineup. Bonetto was loaned out to Bologna in 2007 and Livorno in 2008, helping both clubs achieve promotion to Serie A.

Contract Dispute and Conclusion

In 2009, Bonetto's career took a turn when he was involved in a contract dispute with Livorno, leading to his expulsion from the team. He never played again for the club and eventually retired from professional football.