Benetton secure Italy international Manuel Zuliani

Benetton have announced that Italy flanker Manuel Zuliani has signed a new deal running through to June 2028.

The 25-year-old, who came through the Treviso club’s academy system, has established himself as a regular for both Benetton and the national side. He has made 71 appearances for the Lions across the United Rugby Championship and European competition, scoring five tries.

The 6’2, 111kg flanker has played the majority of his career at openside but can also slot in at blindside.

Capped 35 times by Italy since his senior debut in the 2022 Six Nations, Zuliani scored two tries at the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.

He previously represented Italy at U20 level and was part of the Benetton squad that won the Rainbow Cup in 2021.

“I am extremely happy and proud to have renewed my contract with Benetton Rugby,” said Zuliani of extension at Treviso based URC side. “For me, this club now represents much more than just a team: it has become a real home… My goal is to contribute more and more to the team’s successes, making myself available to my teammates and staff to face present and future challenges together.”

Zuliani first came through Rugby Paese before moving into Benetton’s youth ranks, where he captained the Under-18s and earned selection for the “Ivan Francescato” Academy. A short spell with Calvisano in the Challenge Cup in 2020 gave him senior exposure before returning to Treviso as a permit player.

Test honours with Italy followed shortly thereafter.

“Manuel’s journey within Benetton Rugby represents a story of constant growth, commitment and professionalism,” said Benetton General Manager Antonio Pavanello. “His constant desire to improve, combined with the maturity and performance already demonstrated, have made him a protagonist of our present, but also a fundamental resource on which to build the future of Benetton Rugby with confidence.”