During a season spent with Genoa in Italy, and with Zenit in Saint Petersburg on his mind, Domenico Criscito publicly announced the end of his professional playing career. His message carried gratitude, reflection, and a sense of completion that resonated with fans across clubs and nations.
Criscito expressed heartfelt thanks to everyone who shared in the long, thrilling journey. He singled out his family, his wife and children, noting that Genoa’s spirit fed his passion from the start. He told Genoa fans that he had given his all every time he wore the club jersey, a stance that mirrored the pride he carried throughout his career.
He extended his appreciation to teammates, club presidents, coaches, and the staff behind the scenes. In a social media post, Criscito described Genoa as the soul of football and praised the club’s fans for welcoming him as a boy and helping him grow into the player he became.
Criscito’s career with Zenit ran from 2011 to 2018, during which he featured in 224 matches, scoring 20 goals and recording 29 assists. His time in Saint Petersburg was marked by domestic triumphs, including two Russian Premier League titles and a Russian Cup, cementing his status as a dependable, versatile defender who could contribute across the pitch.
On the international stage, Criscito earned 26 appearances for Italy, representing his country with consistency and leadership on the field. The defender’s performances drew praise from coaches and peers alike, highlighting a player who could read games well and bring reliability to high-stakes matches.
Fabio Capello, who once led the Russian national team, offered a high compliment by naming Criscito the best Italian to have played in the Russian Premier League. That assessment reflects the respect Criscito earned beyond his home leagues, underscoring his impact in a challenging, multi-national environment. The recognition, paired with Criscito’s own reflections on his career, frames his journey as one of resilience, adaptability, and enduring passion for Italian football and the clubs that shaped his path. The retirement marks a moment of transition for a player who balanced club success with international duty and a deep connection to the fans who supported him through every goal, defensive stop, and memorable moment on the pitch.