Italian playmaker Sebastian Giovinco has returned to Serie A after a seven-year journey that has taken him through the turfs of Major League Soccer and the Saudi Professional League. The former Juventus midfielder joined Sampdoria on a free bosman deal – a six-month contract that was signed after he spent some time training with his ex-club Toronto FC.
He was released by former club Al-Hilal at the end of the league season in Saudi back in August 2021. The Blucerchiati pounced upon the opportunity to sign the skillful attacker as a direct replacement for Manolo Gabbiadini, who has been ruled out with a long-term knee injury.
In his first interview with the club’s official YouTube channel, Giovinco revealed that he decided to jump at the opportunity to return to his home country as soon as Sampdoria came calling – mainly due to Toronto FC not including him in the season plans.
He said: “I didn’t think twice when I received Sampdoria’s call. I prepared the luggage and hit the road. I will live in Toronto in the future, but some opportunities only come once in a lifetime. I am happy to have signed with Sampdoria, a prestigious club with a fascinating kit.
I will give my all for the club to gain survival as soon as possible.”
He then went on the disclose the details of his move to Sampdoria after being shunned by the Canadians.
“As everyone knows, I had been training with Toronto until ten days ago, I had almost closed a deal with them, but then it collapsed. I was told that I was not in their plans for the season.
Fortunately, three days later, I received a call from Sampdoria. I want to enjoy every moment here. I’ll play with Fabio and Antonio. I’ve always had a good rapport with them. Several of my ex-teammates speak highly of coach Marco Giampaolo, but I didn’t even have time to think about it. I immediately said yes,” he concluded.
Giovinco is in line to make his second Serie A debut when the Blucerchiati visit Milan at the San Siro on February 13, in a bid to extend their gap over the relegation zone.