Emerick Lopes: France-Cape Verde midfielder joins Alcione from Sassuolo

France-Cape Verde defensive midfielder Emerick Lopes has joined Italian Serie C side Alcione from Sassuolo, sealing a move that brings him back to the Milan-based club after a successful loan spell.

The 21-year-old, who plays primarily as a holding midfielder and is left-footed, returns to Alcione following a season-long loan from Sassuolo that ended in June 2026. The latest move is a completed transfer from the Serie A club, finalised on 15 July 2026.

Lopes, who stands at 1.82m, has built his reputation in Italy across youth and senior football. He made 29 appearances in Serie C for Alcione during his previous stint, adding two assists and gaining valuable experience in the third tier. His performances there came on the back of an impressive record in Primavera 1, where he played 58 times and set up three goals.

Born on 23 April 2005, Lopes represents both France and Cape Verde at nationality level and initially came through the ranks at Paris Saint-Germain, progressing from their U17s to U19s before leaving the French club in 2023. He later joined Sassuolo’s youth set-up after a brief spell without a club.

During his time with Sassuolo’s Primavera side, Lopes collected notable youth honours, winning the Italian Youth Championship in 2023-24 and the Primavera Supercoppa in 2024-25. He also featured in domestic youth cup competitions and the Premier League International Cup at under-21 level.

Lopes now embarks on the next phase of his career with Alcione, who have secured his services following his previous loan and subsequent return to Sassuolo.