Francesco Acerbi Biography: Age, Wife, Career, Personal Life & Health Journey

Francesco Acerbi is an Italian professional footballer known for his resilience on and off the pitch. Born on February 10, 1988, Acerbi is a central defender who has played for top clubs like Lazio and Inter Milan, and is also a regular fixture in the Italian national team. His story is not only one of athletic excellence but also of courage and personal growth, especially after overcoming life-threatening health challenges.

Full NameFrancesco Acerbi
Date of BirthFebruary 10, 1988
Age37 years old (as of 2025)
Place of BirthVizzolo Predabissi, Italy
NationalityItalian
Height1.92 m (6 ft 4 in)
PositionCentre-back
Current ClubInter Milan
Previous ClubsPavia, Reggina, Chievo, Milan, Genoa, Sassuolo, Lazio
National TeamItaly
Debut Year2006 (Club), 2014 (International)
Marital StatusUnmarried (as of latest public info)
Health RecoveryTesticular cancer survivor
Euro 2020Champion with Italy

Early Life and Background

Francesco Acerbi was born in Vizzolo Predabissi, a municipality in the Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy. From a young age, he showed promise as a footballer and began his career in the lower leagues of Italian football before eventually making his way to Serie A.

Professional Career

Club Career

Acerbi’s professional debut came with Pavia in 2006. He played for several Italian clubs, including Reggina, Chievo, and Genoa, before signing with AC Milan in 2012. His time at Milan was short-lived, and after a brief spell at Genoa and Sassuolo, he finally found long-term form with Lazio in 2018. Acerbi became a central figure in Lazio’s defense before transferring to Inter Milan in 2022, initially on loan, which was later made permanent.

International Career

Francesco Acerbi debuted for the Italian national team in 2014 but became a regular call-up under Roberto Mancini. He was part of the UEFA Euro 2020-winning squad, contributing significantly to Italy’s defensive line.

Personal Life and Wife

Francesco Acerbi is known to keep his personal life relatively private. While he has been linked with several romantic relationships, as of the latest public updates, Acerbi is not officially married. He often avoids the media spotlight when it comes to family and personal matters, preferring to focus on football and charitable causes.

Health Battle and Triumph

One of the most inspiring aspects of Acerbi’s life is his battle with testicular cancer, which he was diagnosed with in 2013. After undergoing surgery and chemotherapy, Acerbi made a full recovery and returned to professional football stronger than ever. His comeback has been widely praised and serves as motivation for many battling serious illnesses.

Playing Style

Francesco Acerbi is renowned for his aerial strength, tactical intelligence, and leadership on the field. Standing at 1.92 meters (6 ft 4 in), he is a dominant force in defense and often contributes goals from set-pieces.

Legacy and Influence

Acerbi’s legacy extends beyond football. His fight against cancer and his determination to return to top-level football have made him a role model in Italy and around the world. He frequently participates in campaigns promoting cancer awareness and healthy living.

Conclusion

Francesco Acerbi’s life is a powerful blend of talent, determination, and resilience. Whether anchoring the defense for his club or representing Italy on the international stage, Acerbi is admired not just for his skill, but also for the strength of character he has shown throughout his career.