Wellington Phoenix can confirm that 21-year old attacking player, Reno Piscopo, has signed for the club on a three-year deal after completing a medical yesterday in Wellington.
Signed from Italian Serie C side, A.C. Renate, Piscopo becomes the 19th senior player signed for the upcoming season.
The young winger was born in Melbourne Australia, to an Italian father and Maltese mother and has represented Italy through to the U-17s before switching his international allegiance to his birthplace in 2016.
Beginning his club career at Melbourne Phoenix, Piscopo’s promise was soon realised by Serie A giants, Inter Milan as they signed him to their youth team.
He spent six years with the European club before moving to Torino and later, A.C. Renate in search of first team football.
The skilful Piscopo is adept at using both feet and increases the options that Head Coach, Ufuk Talay has at his attacking disposal.
Having coached the former Inter Milan youth player in the Australian U-20s side, Talay is delighted to confirm his signature ahead of the Hyundai A-league 2019/20 season.
‘‘We have some of the best young talent from New Zealand and Australia and Reno is another that possesses overwhelming potential,’’ Talay said.
‘‘I have long been an admirer of Reno’s having coached him in the Australia U20s and believe he is another youngster that can go on to great things in the Hyundai A-League.’’
Piscopo is excited by the prospect of playing under Talay again and is confident the club can improve on last year’s success.
‘‘Ufuk is a fantastic man-manager who knows how to get the best out of you and how you can improve as a footballer,’’ said Piscopo.
‘‘I looked at the combination of youth and experience here at Wellington and I like the competition for places.
‘‘It makes you work harder during the week to earn that starting spot.
‘‘It’s been great to meet my new teammates and I’m looking forward to getting started.’’
At A Glance
2011-17 Inter Milan Youth – Coaches: Benoit Cauet, Mario Corti, Daniele Bernazzani, Stefano Vecchi.
2017 Torino Youth – Coach: Federico Coppitelli
2017-19 A.C. Renate Senior – Coaches: Oscar Brevi, Aimo Diana, Gioacchino Adamo, Roberto Cevoli
2013 Italy U15 – Coach: Antonio Rocca
2013-14 Italy U16 – Coach: Paolo Vanoli
2014 Italy U17 – Coach: Bruno Tedino
2016 Australia U20 – Coach: Ufuk Talay
2019- Australia U23 – Coach: Graham Arnold
