Toolstation NCEL Division One
An Italian winger who has made over 100 appearances in Serie A has incredibly joined Step 6 side Beverley Town.
Daniele Mannini played in Italy’s top flight for the likes of Brescia, Napoli, Sampdoria and Siena over the decade.
He even played against David Beckham who had a brief loan spell at AC Millan in 2009 and 2010.
After leaving Siena in 2015, he played for the Leece, Pisa and Pontedera.
He has since moved to Hull and following a chance conversation with Beverley’s chairman whilst dog walking, he has joined Dave Ricardo’s side.
Dave Ricardo said: “Most managers and coaches at any level will always say there are one or two players that crop up in pre-season that you didn’t expect to become available – I think it can be safely said Dani for sure falls into this category!
“From a chance meeting walking his dog to signing for Beverley Town three weeks later, you can safely say this comes under Barry Fry’s methods of transfer rather one of Pep [Guardiola]’s.
“I cannot speak highly enough of Dani’s attitude, and his training and dedication have been first class.
“Dani can be a real inspiration for everyone involved at the club, it’s not often you get someone who has played the amount of games Dani has done at a high level, never mind in Serie A.
“Anyone who was lucky enough to be at the Frickley Athletic friendly would have seen his undoubted quality and the people of Beverley will not want to miss him in action when the season starts.
“He has a lovely family who have settled in Beverley and, on behalf of the club, I welcome his in-laws, children and partner to the club, and I know the supporters will do the same.”
Mannini could make his competitive debut in the UK when Beverley visit Athersley Rec on the opening day of the season on the 30th July.
He has already played for them in pre-season as he appeared in the stunning 6-2 win at Frickley Athletic.