Parma, 3 September 2024 – It was a courageous performance from all the Gialloblu. It all clicked in midfield: Sohm’s attacks, Man and Mihaila’s runs, Mateusz Kowalski’s hunger on his first team debut at the age of 19, and a determined team that moved in unison, in harmony. There, in the heart of a stadium that has witnessed so much talent, was one man who made this all happen: Adrian Bernabé. The Spaniard will remember this particular Saturday night, 31 August, at the Stadio San Paolo-Maradona, for a long time. It was his first appearance at the stadium bearing the name of a number 10 par excellence, whilst wearing the same number on the back of his shirt – a number that conveys class, talent, but also responsibility. A number that puts him closer to his idols: Özil, Ronaldinho, and Messi, just to cite a few that Adrian has always looked up to, from whom he has taken much inspiration on the field.

It was here, at the Maradona, that he had his maiden Serie A away game, putting on a Parma shirt, and bringing energy and confidence to the Gialloblu’s midfield. He brought vision, directness, and strength. Parma’s “Diez” shone on the field, and the stats confirm as much: he led the team in most attempts at goal (4), most passes completed (53/64 – 83%), and most interceptions (3, tied with Anguissa). He worked tirelessly with or without possession. 105 minutes in, he launched the ball in a counterattack against Napoli, in the lead-up to Almqvist’s attempt, saved by Meret. It is a testament to the industrious effort, up until the last second, by Adrian and the whole team.

It has been an extraordinary summer and an emotional Serie A debut for Adrian Bernabé. The Olympic Gold with Spain was followed by the first victory in the league over AC Milan at the Tardini. He then joined the celebrations in front of the fans at the “Andiamo al Parma” event on 28 August, with his Olympic medal around his neck. The presentation of a commemorative plaque by Managing Director Corporate, Luca Martines, celebrates the first Olympic Gold in the Club’s history. Surrounded by the fans, it was a show of passion from the Parma Calcio family and from the city of Parma. It was an extraordinary summer, a tiring first month in Serie A, but one full of satisfaction for Adrian and for the team. In a squad that trains every day with enthusiasm and determination, he is a “free spirit” who wants to entertain and inspire the whole squad as any good number “Diez” should. Adrian Bernabé.