Gianluca Busio has confirmed that he is the new captain of Venezia.
The American midfielder has earned the honor ahead of Venezia's return to Serie A for the 2026-27 season.
"Yes, I'm the new captain, it's an honor, I'm proud. I'll do everything I can to best represent Venezia and this team. I never thought I'd have this role, but I'm ready to take it on," Busio told Sky Sport Italia.
The 24-year-old replaces defender Michael Svoboda, who left to join Premier League side Brighton earlier this month.
Busio was an ever-present for Venezia last season, starting 37 of 38 league matches as Venezia earned promotion by winning Serie B. The midfielder scored seven goals and added four assists.
The North Carolina native has been with Venezia since 2021, with the
club bouncing back and forth between Serie A and Serie B since then.
Venezia has earned three promotions and suffered two relegations just since 2020-21, but Busio is hoping the team has enough to stick around for the long haul.
"We have a strong team. Last year's players had a great season, and the new players can contribute something more technically and physically. We can definitely reach safety," he said.
Busio has 17 caps for the U.S. men's national team, most recently playing in November 2024.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: USMNT midfielder Gianluca Busio to captain Venezia in Serie A
