Highly-rated Italy U20 captain David Odiase leaves France for Italian return

Zebre Parma have confirmed the signing of Italy U20 captain David Odiase ahead of the 2025/26 campaign. The back rower, who was born in Crema in 2003, will return to Italy from Top 14 side Oyonnax.

Odiase previously came through the ranks at Rugby Colorno and will reunite in Parma with Massimo Brunello, the coach he worked under during two Six Nations U20 campaigns and at the 2023 World Rugby U20 Championship.

He captained Italy at that tournament, leading the side to a historic win over South Africa as well as a victory over Japan.

The move marks a return to Italian rugby for one of the country’s most highly rated young forwards. Principally an openside, the 6’3, 112kg forward became a viral sensation when giving a rousing speech prior to Italy’s opening game at the 2023 World Rugby U20s tournament.

Already involved with Gonzalo Quesada’s senior national squad for the upcoming 2025 summer tour, Odiase is considered a long-term prospect for the Azzurri.

Zebre CEO Fabrizio Gaetanello welcomed the signing, saying: “The return to Italy of David, one of the most promising talents in our country, is good news for the whole movement. I am sure that with the Zebre shirt he will assert himself and that his talent and professionalism will be important in the team’s economy.”

Odiase said the decision to join Zebre was made “with conviction,” citing the presence of Brunello and the club’s sense of unity as key reasons for his return.

“At Zebre I find a family environment, with a strong sense of brotherhood that allows me to integrate and perform at my best. I have already met some classmates during a summer internship, and finding them, together with new faces, makes this experience even more special.

“I believe that a united group can achieve great results, and Zebre’s recent progress gives me hope for next season. I can’t wait to start this adventure”.