A day after confirming his move to AS Cittadella, Ugandan defender Elio Capradossi has expressed his determination to help the struggling side avoid relegation from the Italian Serie B to the lower-tier Serie C.
In an exclusive interview with The Nerve Africa, the 28-year-old outlined his ambitions, stating his intent to make the most of his short-term, seven-month contract by guiding his new team back to winning ways and revitalizing his career.
Cittadella currently sit 19th in the 20-team table with 12 points from 14 matches, but Capradossi believes he can be the key to turning their fortunes around.
“I’ve played at the top level for many years and have been in similar situations before. I’m convinced we have the right players to change our trajectory. My primary goal is to play a pivotal role in the turnaround,” he told The Nerve Africa.
“I know my potential and what I can contribute to the team. When I perform well and the entire team performs well, there’s no doubt that we can survive relegation. The season is still young,” he added.
At the time of his signing, Capradossi had been a free agent for months following the expiration of his contract with another Italian side, Lecco Calcio. However, he insists he is in excellent physical condition and ready to make his debut against Juve Stabia on Saturday.
“Look, I’ve been out for a few months, but I’ve worked tirelessly during that time and feel great. There’s no doubt that I’m ready to make my debut on Saturday if the coaches include me in the squad. I’ll give my absolute best,” he said.
“On the pitch, I know I can return to my best form, and that spells good things not only for me but also for the club and my country. We’ll take it step by step, but the ultimate goal is to avoid relegation—it’s important,” Capradossi emphasized.
Last season at Lecco, Capradossi, whose Transfermarkt valuation has fallen to €250,000, featured in six matches due to recurring injuries. Before that, he made 17 appearances for Cagliari during the 2022/23 season.
In the past, he has played for several Italian clubs, including SSC Bari, SPAL, Spezia, and AS Roma, where he spent his youth career. Overall, he has accumulated over 150 professional appearances.
At the international level, Capradossi, who made his debut for the Uganda Cranes senior team this year, has earned four caps in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualification matches. At the youth level, he previously represented Italy in the U-17 and U-21 teams.
