Doumbia finds his way: the midfielder Italy had overlooked

Issa Doumbia made his senior debut as a starter against Turkey in the Nations League, displaying the full range of his abilities: imposing physicality combined with tactical awareness, all wrapped in the intensity that defines every action he takes. The decisive moment came at the 87th minute when his ball recovery and forward run led to Pio Esposito's goal, proving that the 2003-born midfielder possesses the credentials to compete at European level.

His rise tells a story of belated recognition. Few in Italian football circles saw his potential when Venezia signed him from Albinoleffe for one million euros in summer 2024. Before that, playing in third division, he had accumulated significant minutes: 37 matches in 2022-23 with one goal and four assists, followed by 33 games the next year with two goals and an assist. His athletic power was evident, as was his ability to make attacking runs and his physical dominance in midfield duels. These qualities caught the attention of sporting director Antonelli, whose project is built on developing young talent.

During his Serie A season with Venezia, Doumbia made 24 appearances for a team heading toward relegation. The following year, competing in the second division, his transformation became tangible: the midfielder scored 10 goals and provided 6 assists across 38 official games, becoming the focal point of the promotion push, particularly in the decisive match at Frosinone. This visibility prompted Sporting Lisbon to invest 20 million euros plus bonuses to secure him.

Beyond statistics, there remains one area requiring development: consistency of focus. Often in Serie B he appeared to shield the ball with excessive nonchalance, convinced he could outclass opponents. At a European club, this weakness can prove costly. International football will be essential in refining these rough edges.