He has a double surname as a result.[5] This was done as an exception to Italian name customs with Italian civil authorities and the Roman Catholic Church agreeing to it at his baptism as double surnames were not usually allowed under Italian law at the time of his birth.[1][7]
Career
Floriani Mussolini started his football career by playing in the youth teams at Roma, before moving to play for Lazio when he was 13.[4][8] Whilst at Lazio, he was loaned out in 2018 to amateur club Vigor Perconti.[9] This came after he did not get any game time at Lazio for two years before he made his debut for the under-17s.[10]
When asked if the player's name would limit his playing time, Lazio's youth coach Mauro Bianchessi stated: "The burdensome surname? I’ve never spoken to his parents, and the only thing that matters is whether a player deserves to play. Nothing else."[6] He wears "Floriani M." on the back of his match shirts.[11] In March 2021, he signed a professional senior contract with Lazio until 2024.[12]
He was first called up to Lazio's first team on 24 October 2021, in a Serie A game against Hellas Verona as an unused substitute.[13]
On 3 August 2023, Lazio announced to have loaned him to Serie C club Pescara, a team coached by former Biancazzurri boss Zdeněk Zeman.[14]
On 5 July 2024, he joined Serie B side Juve Stabia on loan.[15][16] Later that year, on 22 December, he scored his first goal in a 1–0 victory over Cesena.[17] During the goal celebration, the stadium announcer called out his first name, "Romano", seven times, with fans responding by chanting "Mussolini" and giving fascist salutes.[18][19]
Personal life
Floriani Mussolini gained attention after appearing on television with his mother on Ballando con le Stelle.[20] Despite his surname and lineage, Floriani Mussolini stated he has no interest in politics.[6][21] He was educated at St. George's British International School in Rome, and signed for Lazio whilst still studying.[6]