The 2007/08 season saw Inter, managed by Roberto Mancini, emerged as the dominant force, winning the title. Inter showcased their strength throughout the season, finishing with an impressive 85 points 3 points above second-placed Roma.
In terms of the relegation battle, three teams—Livorno, Parma, and Empoli—were unable to secure their Serie A status and were relegated to Serie B for the following season.
This set, 838 stickers large, is a very interesting one for collectors and investors alike. Despite Empoli going down, they feature two great stickers on this list. Let’s get into the Top 10… no 12!
12 – Alessandro Matri Rookie Sticker – #46
Matri is a versatile forward who excels in different aspects of the game. He possesses good technical skills, combining agility and ball control with precise passing and shooting abilities. Matri’s playing style is characterized by his intelligent positioning and ability to find space in the opposition’s defense.
In terms of his physical attributes, Matri has decent pace, allowing him to make effective runs in behind the defensive line. He also possesses strength, which enables him to hold off defenders and compete for aerial balls.
During the 2007/08 season, Matri scored 6 goals in 34 league appearances. He continued to improve season after season and earned a move to Juventus in 2010.
Matri was never a prolific scorer, but a good squad player, who could chip with important goals. Having played for some of the biggest teams in Italy, Matri is a nice rookie sticker to add to the collection.
11 – Gökhan Inler Rookie Sticker – #472
Inler possessed excellent technical skills, including good ball control, passing accuracy, and the ability to distribute the ball effectively from deep positions. He had a wide passing range and was comfortable playing short, quick passes as well as long, precise balls to switch the play or find teammates in advanced positions. His composure on the ball allowed him to maintain possession and dictate the tempo of the game.
In terms of his attacking contributions, Inler had a powerful long-range shot and was capable of scoring goals from distance. He also had good vision and the ability to pick out his teammates with accurate through balls and crosses into the box.
During the 2007/08 season, Inler played for Udinese in Serie A. It was a standout season for him as he showcased his abilities, featuring in all but 1 league game. Inler’s performances were consistent and impactful, providing stability in midfield and contributing both defensively and offensively. His contributions helped Udinese secure a respectable 7th position.
Inler had a fine career, playing many seasons at Udinese before earning a move to Napoli. He featured 89 times and captained the team. I think this is a very underrated rookie sticker.
10 – Enrico Chiesa Final Sticker of Career – #428 – Rookie Sticker from Panini Calciatori 1992/93
Chiesa was a versatile forward who primarily operated as a striker or as a winger. He possessed excellent agility and speed, allowing him to make darting runs and exploit spaces behind the opposition’s defensive line. His intelligent positioning and anticipation of the game made him a constant threat in the final third.
One of Chiesa’s notable attributes was his technical ability. He had exceptional ball control and dribbling skills, enabling him to navigate through tight spaces and beat defenders in one-on-one situations. Chiesa was known for his close ball control, which allowed him to maintain possession even under pressure.
Chiesa’s ability to finish was another standout aspect of his game. He had a natural instinct for goal and demonstrated clinical finishing inside the box. His accuracy and precision in front of goal allowed him to score a variety of goals, including headers, volleys, and powerful strikes.
During the 2007/08 season, Chiesa played only two games and retired at the end of the season, finishing an epic career in Italy. Chiesa played 557 games, scoring 203 goals.
9 – Mario Balotelli Rookie Sticker – #A42
One of Balotelli’s most notable attributes is his striking technique. He possesses a powerful and accurate shot, capable of finding the back of the net from various positions. His ability to generate great power in his shots, both from distance and in the box, often catches goalkeepers off guard. Balotelli is also adept at taking free kicks and penalties, displaying precision and composure under pressure.
However, Balotelli’s playing style is not without controversy. Throughout his career, he has been known for his occasional lapses in discipline and volatile behavior on and off the pitch. This has sometimes overshadowed his considerable talent and caused distractions for his teams.
During the 2007/08 season, Balotelli made his first-team debut at the age of 17. Balotelli showcased his potential with impressive performances, displaying his physicality, technical ability, and goal-scoring prowess. He contributed to Inter Milan’s success, as the team clinched the Serie A title that season.
Mario is a story of what if? Supremely talented, most would agree that he has underachieved in his career. Despite being underwhelming, he has become somewhat of a cult hero and is a very popular player. For this reason I think this is a very safe rookie sticker to have.
8 – Aleksandar Kolarov Rookie Sticker – #203
Kolarov primarily operates as a left-back, although he is capable of playing as a left-sided center-back or even as a left midfielder. His natural position as a full-back allows him to provide defensive stability while contributing significantly to his team’s attacking play.
One of Kolarov’s standout attributes is his exceptional crossing and set-piece ability. His left foot possesses tremendous power and accuracy, enabling him to deliver pinpoint crosses and dangerous free kicks. His crosses often find their intended targets in the box, creating scoring opportunities for his teammates. Kolarov’s set-piece expertise also makes him a threat in dead-ball situations, with his ability to score or create chances from direct free kicks and corners.
In addition to his technical prowess, Kolarov is known for his physicality and stamina. He has a strong build and is capable of using his body to outmuscle opponents and win aerial duels. Kolarov’s physical presence allows him to be an effective defender, both in one-on-one situations and when challenging for the ball in the air.
The 2007/08 season was Kolarov’s first in the Serie A. He managed 24 performances and impressed. Over the next couple seasons, he established himself as a star player, earning a move to Manchester City. He has gone onto be a successful player at City, AS Roma and Inter Milan.
Kolarov has played for some of the top teams in Europe and 94 times for Serbia. This is a very nice rookie sticker, I think.
7 – Cafu Final Sticker of Career – #252 – Rookie Sticker from Abril Campeonato Brasileiro 1991
Cafu, whose full name is Marcos Evangelista de Morais, is a Brazilian football legend known for his exceptional skills as a right-back.
Cafu was renowned for his attacking prowess and incredible stamina, which allowed him to cover large distances on the right flank throughout the match. He possessed remarkable speed and agility, making him a constant threat in the attacking third while still maintaining defensive responsibilities.
Cafu was also known for his precise crossing ability. He had a remarkable knack for delivering pinpoint crosses into the box, giving his teammates excellent scoring opportunities.
Defensively, Cafu was solid and reliable. He possessed excellent positional awareness, allowing him to anticipate opposing attacks and make crucial interceptions. His speed and agility enabled him to recover quickly and track back to defend effectively.
During the 2007/08 season, Cafu played his final season for AC Milan. Although he was approaching the latter stages of his career, Cafu continued to display his exceptional skills and contribute to his team’s success. His experience, professionalism, and technical abilities made him a valuable asset to Milan both on and off the pitch.
Cafu has had an illustrious career winning the league with Sao Paulo, AS Roma and Milan, a UCL title with Milan and 2 World Cups with Brazil, where he he played a whopping 143 caps.
A very cool sticker to see out one of the greatest ever fullbacks!
6 – Alexandre Pato Rookie Sticker – #A66
Pato burst onto the scene as a teenager with exceptional speed, agility, and technical skills. He was highly regarded for his ability to dribble past opponents with ease and his clinical finishing in front of goal. Pato’s playing style was characterized by his explosive acceleration, quick changes of direction, and close control of the ball.
One of Pato’s greatest strengths was his pace. He possessed lightning-fast speed that allowed him to outrun defenders and make darting runs behind the opposition’s defensive line. Pato’s acceleration enabled him to create separation from defenders, making him a constant threat in one-on-one situations and on counter-attacks.
Additionally, Pato exhibited exceptional finishing ability. He possessed a natural instinct for scoring goals, regularly finding the back of the net with precision and power. Pato had a powerful shot with both feet, which allowed him to be a constant threat from various angles and distances.
The 2007/08 season was his debut season in European football, and he made an immediate impact. Pato’s performances were impressive, and he showcased his immense potential as a rising star, scoring 9 league goals in 18 matches.
Pato was one of the highly rated wonder kids ever. He was tipped for stardom and no one really knows why it didn’t work out for him. A mix of injuries and mentality saw his stock drop, eventually returning to Brazil for club football. He has played for many teams since leaving Milan, but never replicated his earlier form.
I think this is a great rookie sticker. It gives us investors a reminder that sometimes it doesn’t work out, heeding warning to those over leveraged in one player. If you asked anyone, Pato was going to be the future of Brazil.
5 – Antonio Candreva Rookie Sticker – #A118
Candreva is known for his versatility, technical skills, and ability to contribute both offensively and defensively. He is a player who combines creativity, agility, and work rate to make an impact on the pitch. His playing style is characterised by his excellent crossing, dribbling ability, vision, and powerful shooting.
One of Candreva’s notable strengths is his crossing ability. He possesses exceptional accuracy and precision when delivering crosses into the box.
Candreva’s shooting ability is another noteworthy aspect of his playing style. He has a powerful shot with both feet, which allows him to score goals from various positions. He is particularly dangerous from outside the box, as he can unleash powerful strikes with accuracy.
Defensively, Candreva is an industrious player who contributes to the team’s defensive efforts. He is willing to track back, press opponents, and make tackles to regain possession.
During the 2007/08 season, Candreva was young and only played 3 matches for Udinese. He spent various seasons on loan, Juventus included, but got his first longterm team at Lazio, where he featured 192 times. After Lazio, he moved to Inter Milan, where he played 151 times.
Currently at the ripe age of 36, he is playing very well for Salernitana, having scored 5 goals in 32 Serie A games.
To cap it off, he has played 54 times for Italy, scoring 7. I think this is a very underrated rookie sticker. He is a very popular player in Italy.
4 – Fernando Muslera Rookie Sticker – #216
Muslera is renowned for his exceptional reflexes, making him a formidable shot-stopper. He possesses quick reactions, allowing him to make acrobatic saves and deny opponents’ goal-scoring opportunities. His agility enables him to cover his goal effectively, reaching shots that may seem destined for the back of the net.
One of Muslera’s notable strengths is his excellent positional sense. He has a keen understanding of his position in the penalty area and anticipates the movements of attackers, enabling him to be well-placed to make saves.
In terms of his 2007/08 season, transferred from Nacional in Uruguay’s Primera División. It was a significant season for him, as he got his opportunity in European football. Muslera managed 9 league appearances for Lazio.
After 4 seasons at Lazio, Muslera earned a move to Turkish giants, Galatasaray. He remains a player for Galatasaray and is a true club legend! He is the captain and has spent 12 seasons, with the current season (22/23) looking likely to be a championship year.
I think this is a great rookie sticker. Turkish are big collectors and all Gala fans will want to add this to their collection. Additionally, he has amassed 133 caps for Uruguay!
3 – Sebastian Giovinco Rookie Sticker – #92
Giovinco is primarily known as an attacking midfielder or forward, and his playing style is characterized by his agility, close ball control, and excellent dribbling skills. Despite his small stature, he possesses remarkable balance and quickness, which allows him to navigate through tight spaces and evade defenders effectively.
One of Giovinco’s standout attributes is his exceptional ball control. He has a low center of gravity, enabling him to maintain close control of the ball even under pressure. This allows him to jink past opponents, change direction quickly, and create opportunities for himself and his teammates. Giovinco also possesses a keen eye for goal himself and is capable of scoring from various positions on the field.
He is a renowned free kick specialist, scoring wonder goals from the set piece!
During the 2007/08 season, was a significant season for him as he established himself as an important player for the team. He played 35 times scoring 6 goals.
Giovinco’s impressive displays in the 2007/08 season earned him recognition and eventually led to his move to Juventus. Throughout his career, he has played for several top clubs, both in Italy and abroad, and has continued to demonstrate his unique playing style and contribute with goals and assists.
Overall, this rookie sticker is a very nice one. He lit up the MLS, so Canadians and Americans may show serious interest in this one.
2 – Claudio Marchisio Rookie Sticker – #89
Marchisio primarily played as a central midfielder, although he was also capable of playing in more advanced or defensive roles. He was often praised for his exceptional work rate, versatility, and ability to contribute effectively both in attack and defense.
One of Marchisio’s key attributes was his excellent ball control and passing ability. He possessed great technique and had the ability to distribute the ball accurately over short and long distances. Marchisio was capable of initiating attacks with his precise passing and was known for his ability to find teammates in tight spaces. His incredible engine allowed him to work box to box with ease.
Marchisio’s tactical intelligence and positioning on the field were also remarkable. He had a good understanding of the game and often found himself in the right place at the right time. He excelled at reading the game, intercepting passes, and breaking up opposition attacks. Marchisio’s defensive contributions were vital for his team, as he would provide cover for the backline and contribute to the team’s overall defensive organization.
During the 2007/08 season, Marchisio played for Empoli on loan from Juventus. It was a significant season for him as he made his breakthrough into the first team, playing 26 times.
Marchisio went on to have a very successful career at Juventus, becoming an integral part of the team and winning numerous domestic titles. He was admired for his loyalty to the club, spending the majority of his professional career with Juventus. Marchisio also represented the Italian national team and contributed to their successes with 55 caps.
The Marchisio rookie sticker comes in at a very close second. A super sticker and a legend for Juventus.
1 – Leonardo Bonucci Rookie Sticker – #607
Leonardo Bonucci is the best Rookie Sticker in Panini Calciatori 2007-2008.
One of Bonucci’s standout qualities is his exceptional positional sense. He has a keen understanding of the game and an ability to anticipate the movements of opposing players. His positional awareness allows him to intercept passes, make crucial tackles, and cut out dangerous attacking plays. Bonucci is also skilled at marking opponents tightly, denying them space and time on the ball.
In addition to his defensive skills, Bonucci is an excellent distributor of the ball. He is known for his exceptional passing ability, both short and long range. Bonucci possesses great composure on the ball and is comfortable initiating attacks from the back. His accurate long passes and diagonal balls help in launching counter-attacks and bypassing opposition midfield lines.
During the 2007/08 season, Bonucci played in the Serie B. It was a crucial season for his development as a young player, as he gained valuable experience and improved his skills.
After his time at Treviso, Bonucci went on to play for top Italian clubs such as Bari, Juventus, and AC Milan. He has won numerous domestic titles with Juventus and established himself as a key figure in the Italian national team defence, winning the 2020 European Championship.
A super rookie sticker! Bonucci is a true legendary Italian defender; no easy task!
Summary
This was such an impressive set I had to change to top 10 to the top 12! I had to think on Marchisio vs Bonucci, but I eventually went with Bonucci for the top spot.
Let me know what you guys think.
Thanks for reading.