Ciro Immobile’s career has been anything but ordinary. From early promise in Italy to stumbles abroad, and eventually goal-scoring glory with Lazio, Immobile’s path reflects persistence. Now in 2025, he suits up for Beşiktaş in Turkey. While it may seem like a surprise move, it fits his story—a relentless forward who never stops chasing goals.
Let’s explore his journey from youth prospect to seasoned veteran.
Humble Beginnings in Southern Italy
Ciro Immobile was born in Torre Annunziata, near Naples, in 1990. As a boy, he played with fire and passion—traits that would follow him throughout his career. After stints at local youth clubs, he joined Sorrento, where his talent truly shone.
In 2008, Juventus came calling. He was just 18. The move offered prestige, but also fierce competition. Breaking into Juventus’ star-studded lineup proved difficult. However, Immobile didn’t give up.
Climbing the Ladder on Loan
To gain experience, he went on loan—first to Siena, then Grosseto, and later to Pescara. It was at Pescara, in 2011-12, that everything clicked. Playing alongside Lorenzo Insigne and Marco Verratti, Immobile scored 28 goals and led the team to promotion. He won the Serie B golden boot that season.
This breakthrough put him back on the map. Bigger clubs took notice. His confidence soared. And importantly, his finishing became deadly.
Proving Himself at Torino
In 2013, Torino took a chance on him. That season, he delivered spectacularly. With 22 goals, he became the top scorer in Serie A. His movement, instinct, and energy overwhelmed defenders. As a result, Torino finished in the top half, and Immobile’s value skyrocketed.
The performances caught the eye of Borussia Dortmund. A new chapter awaited—one outside Italy.
Struggles Abroad: Dortmund and Sevilla
In 2014, Immobile signed with Borussia Dortmund. Fans expected big things, especially after Robert Lewandowski’s departure. However, things didn’t go as planned. He struggled to adapt to Jürgen Klopp’s high-tempo system. Though he scored in the Champions League, his Bundesliga output was underwhelming.
Then came a brief stint at Sevilla. Once again, success eluded him. The language barrier, tactical differences, and limited playing time all played a role. It seemed like Immobile might become another “what-if” story.
But he refused to let that happen.
The Lazio Renaissance
In 2016, Lazio offered him a lifeline. Ciro Immobile grabbed it with both hands. From day one, he looked like a man reborn. He scored goals relentlessly. More importantly, he found a team that suited his strengths—fast breaks, support play, and trust from the manager.
Year after year, he led the line. In 2019-20, he reached the pinnacle. Immobile scored 36 league goals, tying Gonzalo Higuain’s Serie A record. He also won the European Golden Shoe, outscoring the likes of Lewandowski, Messi, and Ronaldo.
That season cemented his legacy in Italian football.
Italy’s Number 9
On the international stage, Immobile had a slower rise. For years, Italy searched for a consistent striker. Although he faced criticism for his national team performances, he never stopped trying.
At Euro 2020 (played in 2021), Immobile finally delivered on the big stage. His movement and energy helped Italy press high. He scored in the group stage and played a key role throughout the tournament. Italy lifted the trophy, and Immobile silenced his doubters.
Though not always clinical for the Azzurri, his work rate and attitude were never in question.
Saying Goodbye to Lazio
By 2024, age began to catch up. Lazio started looking toward younger options. After eight years, 200+ goals, and a place in club history, Immobile faced a tough decision. Stay and accept a reduced role? Or move and find a new challenge?
He chose the latter.
The Move to Beşiktaş
In 2025, Immobile joined Turkish giants Beşiktaş. While many saw this as a step down, it’s actually a smart match. Turkish football thrives on experienced stars. Fans demand passion, and Immobile brings plenty of it.
Beşiktaş, meanwhile, needed a proven goal scorer. Their attack had lacked edge. With Immobile, they found a leader, finisher, and mentor for younger players.
So far, he’s settled well. The Süper Lig's slower tempo suits his game. His runs remain sharp. His finishing, still ruthless. In just a few months, he’s already bagged several goals.
A Model Professional
What makes Ciro Immobile special isn’t just his goals—it’s his mentality. Time and again, he bounced back from setbacks. He failed abroad, but returned stronger. He stayed loyal to Lazio during tough times. And now, at Beşiktaş, he’s giving his all.
He trains hard. He leads by example. And he always respects the shirt.
Off the pitch, he remains grounded. A family man, Immobile avoids the flashy lifestyle. He focuses on football and cherishes his roots.
Legacy of a Relentless Striker
Ciro Immobile may not be as flashy as some modern strikers. He doesn’t dribble past five defenders or go viral every week. But he scores goals—lots of them. And he does it with heart.
Across Serie A, Bundesliga, La Liga, and now the Süper Lig, he’s shown resilience. When others doubted him, he responded with goals. When critics spoke, he stayed silent and scored again.
Few players can boast a European Golden Shoe, 200+ goals for a single club, and a European Championship. Immobile can.
What Comes Next?
Now 35, Ciro Immobile enters the final chapters of his career. Yet, retirement doesn’t feel close. His body holds up well. His hunger remains. Beşiktaş gives him the platform to compete and lead.
Could he win the Turkish title? Possibly. Could he mentor Turkey’s next star striker? Absolutely. And when he finally hangs up his boots, coaching might be in the cards. His game intelligence and experience would translate well.
Final Thoughts
Ciro Immobile’s career teaches us an important lesson. Talent helps, but mentality matters more. He wasn’t always the most hyped. He didn’t have the biggest transfers or flashiest skills. But he worked hard. He learned from failure. And he always came back stronger.
Now in Turkey, he adds another chapter to a remarkable journey. From Torre Annunziata to Rome, from Dortmund to Florence, and now Istanbul—Immobile keeps moving forward.
Because for him, the goal is never just a number. It’s a mission. One he chases until the final whistle.
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