Joao Ricciulli: Guinea-Bissau winger joins Acireale on free transfer from Atletico Catania

Guinea-Bissau-born winger Joao Ricciulli has joined Italian side Acireale on a free transfer from Atletico Catania. The 26-year-old, who also holds Italian nationality, moves after one season with Atletico Catania and will continue his career in Sicily with his new club.

Ricciulli, a right-footed left winger standing at 1.83m, arrives at Acireale after a series of spells across Italy, Romania, Greece and Portugal. He had joined Atletico Catania in August 2025, also on a free transfer, following a stint with Misilmeri. His move keeps him in familiar surroundings in the Italian game, where he has spent much of his career.

Before his time in the lower tiers of Italian football, Ricciulli came through the youth ranks at Sampdoria, progressing from the under-17 side to the under-19s. He also spent time with Braga’s under-23s on loan during the 2018-19 season, gaining experience in Portugal before returning to Italy.

Ricciulli later moved into senior football with Vis Pesaro, then embarked on a series of permanent switches, including to Romanian club Somuz Falticeni and Greek side Aias Gastounis, before returning to Italy with GS Mazara and subsequently Misilmeri. His latest transfer to Acireale continues a career built on adaptability across different leagues and styles.

Across his youth and early senior career, Ricciulli has featured in competitions such as Primavera 1, Serie C and various youth cups, collecting goals and assists from the flank. Acireale have now secured him on a free transfer, adding a versatile attacking option to their squad.