Marco Verratti is yet to play in Serie A during his career but the 32-year-old has been linked with a move to Italy this summer, however, he faces a major stumbling block after a recent ownership agreement with Pescara.
Does Marco Verratti Own Pescara?
The Italian midfielder has drifted away from the headlines in recent years following his move to Al-Arabi in Qatar during the 2023 summer transfer window.
Verratti’s time in Qatar came to an end in June 2025, with the Italian making 40 appearances for Al-Arabi and the 32-year-old did not manage to win any silverware in the two-years.
Despite this, the former PSG star was said to be earning over $35 million per year and is reportedly keen on utilizing this wealth with an ownership share in Serie B side, Pescara.
The Italian side earned a place in Italy’s second division after winning the Serie C play-off stages, beating Ternana via a penalty shootout to return to Serie B for the first time since 2021.
Silvio Baldini’s side are one of the favorites to be relegated next season on the best betting apps, but have been handed some good news in the form of Marco Verratti’s finances.
The Italian international has reportedly agreed a deal with the club that would see him obtain a 40% share in the club, but Verratti would not become a majority shareholder.
Owning this percentage of the club will cost Verratti a reported fee of around $2m and this agreement is set to be completed within the coming weeks.
Verratti came through the ranks at Pescara before making 78 appearances for the Italian side and winning the Serie B title during the 2011/12 season.
Can Marco Verratti Play In Serie A?
With this possible ownership share in Pescara looking increasingly likely, Verratti’s chances to play in Serie A for the first time are now in jeopardy.
Despite being one of the most important Italian players in history, having a major role in the Azzurri’s Euro 2021 success, Verratti has never played in the country’s top division.
This looked to be coming to an end after his deal with Al-Arabi ran its course, as Juventus and Inter Milan continue to be linked with the Italian.
Verratti has been very open about his love for Juventus, stating he was a fan of the Old Lady growing up and was often linked with the Turin-based side during his prime days in Europe.
However, the Italian midfielder opted to stay in France and play for PSG, where he made 416 appearances, winning nine Ligue 1 titles, nine Trophee des Champions, six Coupe de France trophies, six Coupe de la Ligue trophies – being the most decorated player in the clubs’ history when he left in 2023.
At 32-years-old, Verratti is still capable of playing in Serie A and Juventus will be on the hunt for a central midfielder this summer after setting an asking price for Douglas Luiz.
An emotional return to his home nation may be impossible if Verratti seals a 40% share in Pescara, as the Italian Football Federation does not tend to allow players in Serie A to have an ownership stake in a Serie B side.
There are possible ways in which Verratti could still play in Serie A, for example if he does not control Pescara’s operations or hold a majority ownership.
If Pescara were promoted to Serie A then Verratti would definitely be unable to play in Italy’s top-flight, but interestingly he would be able to play for Pescara despite the ownership agreement.
