Italy's Unconventional Wingback Redefines Elite Status: Dimarco’s Meteoric Rise and Big-Game Brilliance

Federico Dimarco’s remarkable performance in Italy’s 3-1 victory over France has reignited discussions about his status among football’s elite. The Inter Milan wingback was instrumental in the victory, scoring a stunning long-range goal, delivering two key passes, and showcasing an all-around performance that earned him high praise from La Gazzetta dello Sport, L’Équipe, and The Guardian. His display has sparked a debate: does Dimarco truly belong in the “world-class” category?

This article delves into Dimarco’s journey, his strengths and weaknesses, and why he is increasingly being recognized as one of football’s finest wingbacks.

Numbers Don’t Lie: A Rising Star

Dimarco’s meteoric rise over the past two years is evident in his market value. According to Transfermarkt, he is currently the fourth most valuable left-back in the world. However, even this ranking comes with caveats. Joško Gvardiol, ranked first, often plays as a central defender, and Theo Hernández, ranked second, has a valuation that some Serie A analysts consider debatable.

Two years ago, Dimarco’s market value stood at a modest €10 million. Today, he is among the most valuable players in his position. To deny him the “world-class” label, at least in terms of market valuation, seems increasingly untenable.

Dimarco’s Unique Skill Set

In modern football, every top player has distinct strengths and weaknesses. Dimarco is no exception. Critics often highlight his lack of physicality, outright pace, and the ability to consistently dribble past opponents in congested areas. But football is a game of contrasts, and Dimarco compensates for these perceived shortcomings with technical attributes that are rare even at the highest level.

World-Class First Touch

Dimarco’s ability to control long balls and high passes with his first touch sets him apart from most full-backs. As noted by The Guardian, his technical precision allows him to create space effortlessly, making him a crucial asset for both Inter Milan and the Italian national team. His first touch is not just about ball control; it’s a weapon that facilitates tactical plays such as switching the ball to the left flank—a key strategy for both teams.

Many wingbacks with superior physical attributes fail to capitalize on goal-scoring opportunities because of poor ball control. Dimarco, by contrast, excels in this area, transforming Inter’s and Italy’s left flank into a creative hotspot.

Master of Delivery

Dimarco’s expertise extends beyond controlling the ball. His ability to deliver pinpoint crosses, free kicks, and long-range passes consistently disrupts opposing defenses. He is a specialist in set pieces and long balls, traits that have become integral to his success.

Over the years, he has honed this skill across various levels of Italian football. Having represented Italy at every age group—from U15 to the senior squad—Dimarco has been a trusted set-piece taker throughout his international career. His ability to execute high-pressure deliveries is a testament to his exceptional technique.

Big-Game Brilliance

What truly sets Dimarco apart is his knack for delivering in high-stakes matches. Since making his senior national team debut in 2022, Dimarco has made his mark against some of the strongest teams in the world.

• Against Germany, he recorded two assists.
• Against the Netherlands, he scored a crucial goal.
• Most recently, against France, he netted a spectacular long-range strike.

This trend extends to club football. Dimarco has made decisive contributions in matches against top-tier opponents, including Barcelona, Benfica, Atlético Madrid, Juventus, AC Milan, Napoli, and more. Notably, he has scored or assisted in five Derby d’Italia and Derby della Madonnina clashes—a remarkable feat for a wingback.

In football, reputations are often built on performances in marquee games. European fans and analysts often focus on these high-profile clashes, and Dimarco’s consistency in such matches has significantly boosted his international recognition.

The Question of "World-Class"

The term “world-class” is inherently subjective, often tied to perception and reputation. Dimarco’s international acclaim stems largely from his performances on the biggest stages. When a player consistently delivers against elite competition, their recognition grows exponentially, as does their perceived value.

For Dimarco, this value is not just monetary. It lies in his ability to blend technical brilliance with a relentless work ethic, making him a unique asset in modern football.

From Underdog to Elite

Dimarco’s journey from a €10 million prospect to one of the most talked-about wingbacks in the world highlights the importance of patience and belief in player development. Inter Milan, in particular, has reaped the rewards of his growth.

While he may never possess the physical attributes of a stereotypical wingback, Dimarco’s technical skills, tactical intelligence, and big-game mentality more than compensate for any perceived shortcomings. As his stock continues to rise, his story serves as an inspiration for clubs and players alike: world-class potential often lies in unconventional packages.

Dimarco’s rise is a reminder that football is a game of diversity, where players with unique strengths can thrive at the highest level. For Inter Milan and Italy, his contributions are proving invaluable, and his reputation as a “world-class” player is becoming harder to dispute.