Getting To Know: Gabriel Ortelli

The academy question-and-answer series shines a light on some of the best upcoming talent at Watford, quizzing a selection of Young Hornets about their journey in and outside of football.

Next to take on the questions is highly-rated goalkeeper Gabriel Ortelli.

The 16-year-old, who joined the Hornets in 2019, is a first-year scholar who features regularly for Charlie Daniels’ Under-18s side, while having also made the occasional step-up to the Under-21s.

How would you describe your playing style?
I like to think of myself as a modern goalkeeper. I have quite a high starting position, playing like a sweeper goalkeeper. I like to use my feet a lot and get involved a bit more.

Your footballing idol?
I admire Manuel Neuer and how he likes to play. I love his arrogance and confidence on the ball - it’s something that I look up to. Growing up I watched him at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, and he is someone who I use to help me.

Biggest influence?
I’d say my dad. He has taken me to every game and every session. He has supported me the whole way, and has allowed me to develop as a player and as a person.

Most talented teammate?
Michael Adu-Poku is so fast and strong. It helps as a goalkeeper when you know you have him on your team because he is such a great outlet. If you’re ever in trouble you can just boot it up to him, and he will most likely win the one-on-one duel. He is one of the best players I have played with so far.

Favourite football memory?
As an Under-15 I played against Liverpool, and I saved a penalty which allowed us to go on and win the game. It was 5-4 and it could’ve gone either way, but I remember that really well. It is certainly my highlight so far playing for Watford.

Your aims for the future?
I want to be a consistent starter for the Under-18s, especially with the FA Youth Cup coming up. I watched Chelsea come to Vicarage Road last season in the competition, and I want to get involved. Hopefully, I can train or get involved with the first-team as well.

Best advice you’ve received?
During lockdown in 2020, we had a question-and-answer session with Dan Bachmann, Ben Foster and all the goalkeepers. One of the questions I asked was about overcoming mistakes. They both gave great answers about how mistakes are a part of football, and that it’s about learning from them. I have taken that advice on because we are all human.

Your job if you weren’t a footballer?
I’m studying A Level history alongside my football, so something down the history route. I really like modern history, so something to do with civil rights or the Second World War.

How would you rate yourself on FIFA?
Diving: 85 - I think I’m quite agile and powerful, so I’m able to move around the goal quickly. I’m a bit of a showboater, so if I can make it look better, that’s a bonus!
Handling: 83 - We work hard on that in training.
Kicking: 84 - Your distribution has to be on point nowadays.
Reflexes: 86 - This is my best stat because of my agility.
Speed: 70 - I wouldn’t say I’m known for my speed.
Positioning: 87 - I like playing high and not too far from the centre-backs.
OVERALL: 85