Ben Godfrey’s football journey has taken an unexpected turn, marked by linguistic challenges, managerial snubs, and a renewed determination to reignite his career. His meticulous preparation for a move abroad, which included diligently studying Spanish for over a year, ironically landed him in Italy, necessitating a swift pivot to learn a new language. The cultural and linguistic immersion proved demanding, requiring him to balance intensive Italian lessons with the tactical intricacies of his new team, Atalanta. The initial communication barrier was significant, leaving him completely lost during the manager’s addresses in the first few weeks. This linguistic hurdle added to the broader challenges of adapting to a new country and culture, a process made even more difficult by the subsequent lack of playing time.
Despite the initial excitement of joining a Serie A club, Godfrey’s time at Atalanta was largely spent on the sidelines. Signed by the Italian club for a substantial fee of £10 million after leaving Everton, he found himself surprisingly out of favor with manager Gian Piero Gasperini. This unexpected lack of game time proved a significant setback for the competitive defender, highlighting the unpredictable nature of a footballer’s career. The experience, he admits, was a difficult one, forcing him to confront the realities of professional sport where not everything goes according to plan. Being benched tested his resilience and forced him to navigate the unfamiliar and challenging waters of being an Englishman abroad, struggling for playing time. He describes this period as being “chucked in the deep end,” but maintains a positive outlook, emphasizing his determination to overcome this setback and move forward.
Godfrey’s connection with former Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti persists, although a loan move to Real Madrid, where Ancelotti currently manages, was never a realistic possibility. He maintains contact with the esteemed manager, but their relationship isn’t as close as some might speculate. This period of reflection following his Italian stint has reinforced Godfrey’s passion for the game and his desire to return to competitive action. He acknowledges the difficulties he faced in Italy, recognizing it as a learning experience that has strengthened his resolve.
Now on loan at Ipswich Town, Godfrey is focused on contributing to the team’s efforts to maintain their Premier League status. He made his debut in a convincing FA Cup victory against Bristol Rovers, receiving a warm welcome from the Ipswich faithful, demonstrating that his previous association with Norwich City has not tarnished his reputation with the local fans. The transition to Ipswich also offers a reunion with a familiar face, Jack Clarke, a former schoolmate from York. This reunion adds a comforting element to Godfrey’s new environment as he embarks on this next chapter of his career.
Beyond his club ambitions, Godfrey harbors aspirations of returning to the England national team. Having earned two caps in friendlies under Gareth Southgate, he is keen to impress the new Three Lions boss, Thomas Tuchel. He understands that consistent, high-level performances are the key to regaining a place in the national squad. Godfrey’s focus remains firmly on his club duties, believing that strong performances for Ipswich will naturally attract the attention of the national team selectors. This renewed focus on his club career underscores his commitment to proving his worth and regaining the form that initially earned him international recognition.
Godfrey’s journey is a testament to the unpredictable nature of professional football. From meticulously learning Spanish in anticipation of a move abroad only to end up in Italy, to the unexpected lack of playing time at Atalanta, he has experienced the highs and lows of the game. Now, back in England with Ipswich Town, he is determined to revitalize his career, contribute to the team’s success, and potentially earn a recall to the England national team. His story underscores the resilience and adaptability required to navigate the challenges of a professional football career, highlighting the importance of perseverance and a positive mindset in overcoming setbacks and pursuing one’s ambitions.
