Northampton Saints sign Italy’s Marco Manfredi

Northampton Saints have announced the signing of Italian hooker Marco Manfredi for the 2025/26 season.

The 28-year-old joins from United Rugby Championship side Benetton and has already linked up with the squad at Franklin’s Gardens this week.

Manfredi, who has been capped three times by Italy, arrives as timely cover with Curtis Langdon sidelined following shoulder surgery. Known for his physicality and reliable set-piece work, he is expected to add valuable depth to the Saints’ front row.

The German-born hooker began his rugby journey in Montpellier’s youth system before moving to Calvisano, where he impressed enough to earn a loan to Zebre Parma. He later signed permanently for Zebre, making 50 appearances across six seasons, before joining Benetton in 2024.

Internationally, Manfredi featured in Italy’s Under-20 setup and made his senior debut during the 2023 Six Nations against Scotland. He has since added two more Test caps, including an appearance at the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

Manfredi expressed his excitement about the move, noting the intensity of Premiership Rugby compared to the URC. He also credited his close friendship with fellow Italian international Danilo Fischetti as an influence in his decision to sign for Saints.

“I’m super excited to be a part of Northampton Saints,” he told the club's official website.

“I can’t wait to get playing with the lads. I know the history of Northampton and how far back the Club goes back, and I am pleased to able to play a part in that.

“The PREM is quite different to the URC. It is a faster game here, it is a big competition. I am looking forward to trying a new league and testing myself in a new environment.

“I’ve known Danilo Fischetti for a long time now, he’s a very close friend and he was a big part of the reason I decided to come to Northampton.

“He’s only said good things about the Club, that it’s a great stadium with great supporters, and that the team here make you feel comfortable as soon as you arrive.

“The coaching staff, medics and everyone I’ve met so far has been amazing with me – I’m excited to get going.”