New Zealand Star Would be an Ideal Fit for Fulham
New Zealand star Liberato Cacace could be a useful option for Fulham if Antonee Robinson decides to leave the club this summer.
The 24-year-old has worked his way from the A-League to the Italian Serie A, living up to his talent and developing his maturity in every new chapter of his career.
Cacace has established himself as one of the first names on the team sheet for New Zealand and captained them to a 4-0 win over Malaysia in October last year.
He was involved in nearly every attacking move, consistently offering support from the left flank and pushing forward with energy and purpose.
Cacace made a huge impact in the game, creating a handful of chances and was finally rewarded for his attacking endeavours with an assist.
A Career Built on Adaptability and Grit
Adapting to different environments has been a hallmark of Cacace’s impressive career. He made his debut for New Zealand as a 17-year-old, which speaks volumes about his talent.
He has not looked back since then. The Kiwi star has made an impact at every level, moving from his early days in Island Bay before ending up at Empoli in 2022.
Cacace has grown as a player and a leader, which is reflected in his body language on the pitch. While he may not be the most fleet-footed left back, his work rate is undeniable.
One of Cacace’s most impressive traits is his fitness level. Aside from a 17-day spell on the sidelines during the 2020 pandemic, the Kiwi star has yet to be confined to the infirmary due to injuries.
His exceptional fitness has made him a reliable presence for both Empoli and New Zealand at left back, and his ability to cover the pitch is outstanding.
New Zealand head coach Darren Bazeley has recognised his improvement and previously praised him for being a leader who commands respect within the squad.
“He’s a fine young man and he’s really grown up,” Bazeley said. “Firstly, he’s a very good footballer, but he’s so strong and dynamic with his play. He commands a lot of respect.”
If Cacace continues to develop at his current pace, there’s no doubt that he will become one of New Zealand’s most important players in the years to come.
His talent is already being recognised at club level, with several clubs reportedly interested in luring him away from Empoli. He could be a shrewd acquisition for Fulham.
Cacace Could Replace Antonee Robinson
Fulham’s Antonee Robinson has been linked with a move to Liverpool this summer.
The Reds are in the market for a new left-back to replace Andrew Robinson, who is in the latter stages of his career and approaching the end of his contract.
Fulham may be powerless to stop Robinson from joining Liverpool if they come calling, but Cacace could be the answer to their conundrum at left back if that happens.
Moving to the Premier League would undoubtedly be a dream come true for the Kiwi star, and his potential transfer would also send fans in his native New Zealand into meltdown.
The betting community in New Zealand would be particularly keen to see how his adventure in the Premier League plays out, and sportsbooks would benefit massively.
The top betting websites in New Zealand would be inundated with wagers as punters bet not only on Cacace’s individual performances but also on Fulham.
The Cottagers would gain a new fan base in New Zealand courtesy of the Kiwi star, with fans betting on Cacace to thrive in the English top flight.
Given how his career has panned out, it would not be surprising if he adapted to the Premier League like a duck to water.
The Premier League is no easy transition for defenders. The speed, physicality and relentless pressure expose weaknesses and exaggerate flaws. But Cacace’s profile suggests he is uniquely prepared.
Cacace mirrors Robinson in more ways than one. He gets up and down the flanks, makes intelligent choices in possession, times his overlaps well and has the recovery speed to ensure he’s not caught out of position.
He has all the tools to be a value-for-money signing for Fulham if Robinson leaves this summer.
